Ducati’s Lorenzo denies use of team orders

DUCATI’S Jorge Lorenzo claimed that he was not given any orders from the team to give way to Andrea Dovizioso or refrain from attacking as the latter took the lead at the Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix yesterday.

Lorenzo said he did not have the grip to challenge his teammate for the win and doing so would put himself at risk of crashing.

Dovizioso is battling Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda) for the MotoGP championship title.

“Once I overtook Johann Zarco (for the lead) I just focused on doing consistent lap times and saving the tires,” said Lorenzo.

“The rear was okay but there was very little grip on the front.

“I had to make a few saves and on turn 15 (lap 16) I really thought I was going to crash but then the front regained grip at the last minute. This is when Dovizioso overtook me.

“Honestly I did not receive any message from the team, I was just really focusing on the bike. I know what to do in this situation.

“I really wanted to follow Dovizioso and win but the front end was really on the limit and to do so would be dangerous as I could have caused both of us to crash.”

Sepang was Lorenzo’s third podium of the season having finished third at both Jerez and Aragon earlier this year.

Lorenzo is currently seventh in the overall standings on 137 points.