Cal Crutchlow took on the role of local idol today by setting the third fastest time on the first day of testing for this weekend's British Grand Prix at Silverstone. The LCR Honda team driver had downplayed his hopes of remaining on the same momentum after his victory at the Czech GP but the pace he managed to set this Friday dispelled his doubts.
The MotoGP contingent was greeted by cool temperatures and overcast skies which did not prevent them from taking to the track for the final session at the end of which the Isle of Man resident took the 11rd chrono.
In the afternoon, after a brief rain shower, the Coventry native improved his time by more than two seconds, finally setting a time of 2'01.917 which allowed him to conclude this first day of testing in third position. and occupy the symbolic place of first Honda driver. With rain forecast for Saturday's qualifying, the 30-year-old Briton has legitimate hopes of securing the best possible position on the starting grid for Sunday's Grand Prix, which should take place on a dry track.
Cal Crutchlow #35 – 3rd (2'01.917)
“Things didn't go too bad today. The work was relatively heavy this morning because we had a multitude of things to try on the bike. Satisfaction prevailed at the end of the first free practice session but there was still concern because it looked like it was going to rain for the rest of the day and I was outside the Top 10.”
“The afternoon session afterwards was also productive and I was again pleased with the significant progress we managed to make. We still have a heavy program to complete over the next two days before Sunday's race, even if we are constantly uncertain about the weather conditions in which we will have to operate. It's always a disaster. The team is really doing a fantastic job and we'll see what happens tomorrow whatever the weather.”
