The Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS team returns from the Qatar Grand Prix satisfied with the work accomplished, despite a mechanical problem during the race which could have cost Álex Márquez dearly. Here is the team's press release.
Alex Marquez placed third in the Qatar Grand Prix, the opening event of the Moto2 world championship. The driver of Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS was unable to claim victory due to a cruel lack of luck.
Five laps from the finish, while in second place and preparing to challenge Francesco Bagnaia for victory, Márquez suffered a rear brake problem.
Despite this incident, the Spaniard who started from pole position was able to save third place to get on the podium.
Joan mir consolidated the overall result of Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS by finishing eleventh, very close to the top ten.
The reigning Moto3 world champion produced a superb start from 24th place to gain ten places on the first lap of the race. In just three laps, Mir had moved up to ninth position to battle with much more experienced drivers such as Luca Marini, Xavi Virgo and Jorge Navarro. In the fight from start to finish of the race, he finally finished eleventh.
The next round of the Moto2 world championship will take place in Argentina on April 8.
Alex Marquez :3e
“Even if I wasn't able to fight until the end for victory, I am satisfied with my pole position and this third place taking into account my brake problem. I tried to stay relaxed for the first half of the race to save my rear tire for the end. And then at one point I thought my engine was locking up. It was when I looked behind that I saw that my brake disc was all red and seized. In the time to react, I finished the race without brakes, trying to keep the best possible pace to save third place and start the season with big points. »
Joan mir :11e
“I'm very happy with my first lap because I was able to show that I was on the pace on new tires, and also a little later on worn tires. I fought for the top ten, but the last laps were more complicated when the grip level dropped. I need to improve my regularity and consistency at this level. It's a good start in Moto2 and I thank my team for giving me a competitive bike for this first race. »
Michael Bartholemy : Team Principal
“I think Alex could have won today. Unfortunately it didn't happen like that. He didn't get off to the best start, but when he overtook Baldassari he came back on Bagnaia. A technical problem then put an end to his ambitions. Alex was still able to finish the race on the podium. After last minute modifications to the settings of her bike, Joan was also able to have a very good race. Despite his position on the grid, he finished first rookie. »
