After his exploit at the last Japanese Grand Prix which ended with a superb victory, Andrea Dovizioso has the wind in its sails. The way in which he snatched success at Motegi placed him in the same dimension as Marc Márquez who is ultimately the only one not to be surprised to see the Ducati official at such a party. It is now Phillip Island which is on the horizon for second in the championship, back at 11 points. And, a priori, it will be more delicate than last weekend…
DesmoDovi may appreciate the selective route of Phillip Island as much as his colleagues, but the latter has rarely returned this esteem. Only three podiums have been taken in the Italian's career in Australia; a victory in 125 in 2004 and two third places. The first in 250 in 2007 and the second in MotoGP in 2011.
Furthermore, Ducati has four successes, all of which can be credited to Casey Stoner (2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010). The podium ofAndrea Iannone two years ago was the first in Australia for the Borgo Panigale firm since the ultimate triumph of Stoner in 2010. In comparison, Honda is the most successful manufacturer at Phillip Island in the MotoGP era, with seven victories.
A situation which could place the reds and its spearhead on the defensive. But for all that, Dovi warns, he will not refuse the fight: “ Phillip Island is one of Marc Márquez's favorite tracks and our situation will undoubtedly be a little more delicate than that experienced in Japan. But last year, we had a good race there so we're going to try our luck by working as best we can throughout the meeting. ».
« There are only three races left now before the end and anything can happen. We will try everything and be fast on every remaining circuit and in all conditions. On paper, we are not the favorites to win in Australia. But we won't give up and we will fight like we always have ».
Hostilities begin this Friday, October 20 for the first free practice session at 01:55 a.m. French time.
