Following a good start to the journey, before the virus took hold, Scott Redding left Phillip Island with 39 points in the provisional general classification, compared to 32 for the current five-time World Champion Johnny Rea. The Ducati 2020 offensive was launched, and everything will be done on the Bologna side so that the Panigale V4 R does not suffer the same affront again as last year.
Rather than a flamboyant start to the season followed by disappointing disappointment, as was the case for Alvaro Bautista In 2019, Redding was the only man to build solidly in Australia this year by reaching the podium three times. Alone alex lowes has scored more points than him, but Redding intends to provide him with quality opposition in Andalusia.
The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team arrived this Wednesday at the Jerez de la Frontera – Ángel Nieto circuit for the first day of installation also characterized by the new protocols that Dorna has put in place to ensure maximum prevention and security inside the paddock.
Chaz Davies and Scott Redding will be back on their Ducati Panigale VR 4 on Friday at 10:30 a.m. for the first WorldSBK free practice session.
To Scott Redding, “I can't wait to get back on track after this long stop. We had the opportunity to resume activity with 4 days of testing which were very important but we know that the race weekend is something entirely different. »
“Finally, the season starts again. It will be a very difficult weekend due to the weather conditions we will find in Jerez but we have had time to prepare physically and mentally. »
“I want to wish the team good luck and I will do everything possible to fight for victory in every race. »
According to Chaz Davies, “It’s good to be on a track again. Everything will be very different, but I think the world has also changed in recent months. »
“For sure, as we saw in MotoGP, temperature will be a predominant factor for everyone. It will be a difficult challenge from all points of view: for the drivers, for the tires, for the settings. This is why it will be very important to work well from Friday morning. »
“I feel good physically, I have worked a lot and I can't wait to get back to my Panigale V4 R, also taking into account the tests in Misano and Barcelona which gave positive indications. »
Ducati can counter on a top-notch satellite team, with Marco Melandri at Barni Racing. “The most important thing will be to get back into rhythm, » said Marco. “But it will be fantastic to be back on a starting grid and see the lights go out. I am ready to show the best of myself – which unfortunately I was not able to do last year. I have a desire for repair. »
“I’m very excited to see what we can achieve in the first race weekend,” exclaimed Marco Barnabò, the team manager. “It is clear that we are at a disadvantage because the others have traveled many kilometers. However, I am very confident. I feel like Marco has a very clear idea of what he needs. And we will fulfill his wishes. His experience will help us catch up. »
Photos © Ducati and Aruba.it
