Bad luck for Pasini
REPLACEMENT rider Mattia Pasini could not build on his strong performance in qualifying after suffering some wretched luck in the race at the French Motorcycle Grand Prix yesterday.
The Petronas Sprinta Racing rider, a replacement for the injured Khairul Idham Pawi, saw his Moto2 race cut short after being taken out by countryman Lorenzo Baldassarri in the second lap at the Le Mans circuit.
Pasini, who started from fourth on the grid, was clearly disappointed to have his debut for the team cut short in such unfortunate circumstances.
“It's a shame because we did an excellent job all weekend,” said Pasini.
“I think we could have fought for a podium finish and perhaps even win today (yesterday). It is a shame to lose one race for this but honestly there was nothing I could do.
“Baldassarri was riding on the limit from the first corner of the first lap. He crashed in front of me and I could not pass him without making contact, that was it.
“I am so sad because it was a good opportunity for us.
“Anyway we have two days to test in Barcelona next and I think my home GP will be a good chance to make up for the bad luck we had here.”
The Italian Motorcycle Grand Prix will be held at the end of the month.
Alex Marquez (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) went on to take the win in 40 minutes and 36.428 seconds. Lightech Speed Up's Jorge Navarro (+1.119s) and Flexbox HP40's Agusto Fernandez (+1.800s) were second and third.
Khairul, who injured his right hand during practice at Jerez, is expected to be out for another six weeks.