Formerly a host of MotoGP races, Danilo Petrucci had fallen into a negative spiral since his podium in Catalonia last year. The average results continued until October 11, 2020 and this magnificent victory at the French Grand Prix.
This victory feels like a true resurrection. Indeed, this result was completely unpredictable, but warning signs ultimately pointed to a good performance.
Le Mans has often been successful for the Italian. Of course, it's impossible to forget his 2019 podium, his first on the official Ducati. But a year before, second place reached out to him after defeating his compatriot Valentino Rossi. This followed the fall of Johann zarco early in the race, then started from pole position.
The typical “stop and go” route corresponds to the adventurous driving style of the native of Terni. Beyond this dimension, rain (and difficult conditions in general) often succeed. In 2017, he achieved several podiums in the wet. We remember the joust with his rival Marc Marquez in Misano, equipped with carbon discs. Besides, he is the man who completed the podium during the battle
Dovizioso/Márquez in Motegi, as part of the 2017 Japanese Grand Prix.
Not long ago, Petrucci in the rain was often synonymous with the podium. Photo: Michelin Motorsport
Once again, conditions deteriorated and rain continued to pound the Japanese soil. Let's return to the French Grand Prix, and try to analyze the wonderful race of the n°9,
future Tech3 pilot.
Starting from third position, this position gave him a significant advantage. Indeed, it is located inside the first curve, and allows you to forcefully pass through the right turn of the Dunlop chicane.
Although Jack Miller made a huge start, this momentum from Petrucci allowed him to find himself comfortably installed within the leading group, soon joined by his teammate, Andrea Dovizioso, author of a sensational start.
The Ducati works hard in these tricky conditions. If Miller seems able to attack the two officials and take command, no one really dares to attack for fear of going off course and losing everything.
As the race progresses, Alex Rins rises inexorably to the leading group. At this moment, Danilo is warned by his engineers of the rise of the Suzuki no. 42. Immediately, he reacts. The move was the right one and saved his race.
Moreover, similar situation a little later. After the suicidal attack of Rins and the breakage of Miller, he knew how to drive the point home in order to give himself a cushion of comfortable seconds. From that moment on, he only had to manage the meteoric rise ofAlex Marquez and claim victory. The race was masterfully managed and never " Desmodovi » nor Miller were able to contain him and outpace him over a long distance.
Let's hope that the confidence generated by the Italian anthem gives him enough energy, and allows him to fight for other victories. This bodes – very – well for next year, where he will have to deal with a sometimes capricious KTM Tech3.
Cover photo: Michelin Motorsport.
