MotoGP, Qatar J1 Test: Dovizioso feels strong and calm but still remains cautious

While the Yamaha regained their health and morale, thatAlex Rins gained maturity with the Suzuki, Andrea Dovizioso, he continued his merry way with a Ducati GP19 which already seems very well developed. Spearhead and leader of the Ducati troops who have placed themselves entirely in his hands, the 2017 and 2018 world vice-champion feels that this time, it could well be his turn. But don't count on Dovi to boast...

DesmoDovi began its 2018 campaign by winning at Losail. A scenario that could well be repeated this year. Third at the end of the first of the three evenings devoted to the final MotoGP tests before the start of hostilities, the Ducati official exuded calm and serenity... " I didn't try anything special this first day, and we don't have many new things to try for these three days. Only trifles », reported the crew member of a Petrucci fourth.

« I felt good, the track conditions were also good. There was no rubber on the asphalt, but it was clean. The times were already quite fast. But as always: at the end of the day, lap times are not that important in such a test, they do not reflect reality. We don't focus on the lap time, but on the race. We strive to be in the best possible position for the race”, said the Italian, who won in Qatar in 2018 and placed second at Losail, in 2015, 2016 and 2017. Without forgetting a third place in 2010. Fourth place was also taken by “Dovi » in 2008 and 2011.

« The second and third days will certainly be more informative if things improve further “, the twelve-time MotoGP winner told Speedweek. “ I'm happy that we have more or less the same bike on the track that we will also use here in the Grand Prix. Last year we were very well prepared for this Grand Prix. At the moment, it is still difficult to estimate the strength of the opponents. We feel strong, but with competition we are in the dark. It seems that Suzuki has become stronger. Yamaha too. These are our observations. But the reality will only be revealed on March 10 ».

What is still the margin for progress for Desmosedici? “ We are in the same situation as in 2018. It’s still in the middle of the curve, of course,” Andrea said. “Maybe our initial situation has improved a little here. But we don't know what the competition looks like. The cards will be revealed in the race ».

But the strengths of the Ducati remained similar. “ Yes, but we tried to win in areas where we have always been strong. We were competitive in 2018, almost everywhere, so we are in a comfortable situation ».

“Dovi” lost 0.499s from the best time achieved by Casa Particular in Viñales on the Yamaha. Danilo Petrucci was 4th. Álex Rins is in third place, there are three different brands that we find in the leading trio.

MotoGP, Qatar J1 Test: times