Yamaha Factory Racing set up in Sepang this week straight from Japan for the middle of the three overseas back-to-back races, the Grand Prix of Malaysia. Championship leader Jorge Lorenzo arrives with a 28-point lead at the top of the standings after a strong second place finish at Motegi on Sunday. The Sepang circuit holds starkly contrasting connotations for Lorenzo, being the scene of his World Championship title in 2010 countered by the tragic passing of Marco Simoncelli in 2011.
Ben Spies moves to Sepang determined to complete the final three races of the season on a high note following a disastrous Grand Prix of Japan which saw him retire on the second lap with braking issues. Due to the cancellation of last year’s race Spies has only competed once at the Sepang circuit, taking an impressive fourth place finish from fourth on the grid in his rookie year.
Jorge Lorenzo
“So here we are back in Sepang, a track with difficult memories for all of us from Marco’s tragic accident last year. It is also a track which has very good memories for me from 2010 when I became MotoGP World Champion. With three races left to go we must stay very focused and do our best to put on a good show this weekend. The track is maybe more suited to our bike than Motegi so we will be aiming for the best possible result.”
Ben Spies
“It’s a strange feeling to come back here after last year. We will honour Sic in the best way we know how, by going out on track and giving 100% as always. Last weekend was yet another disappointment with brake issues, I really hope we can have a trouble free time here in Sepang and show our true podium potential.”
Yamaha Factory Racing Press Release
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