Alessandro Tonucci (Team Italia FMI FTR Honda#19) confirmed his penchant for the Japanese track by scoring his maiden podium.
After the start, he controlled the opponents and counted on a strong race pace. He stayed with the frontrunners scoring the fastest lap (1'59"111) and set himself up to fight against Folger, Kent, Salom and Khairuddin.
Tonucci stayed at the front with some spectacular passes and late braking. During the last lap, after Salom and Folger crashed out, he had a chance at the victory against Kent, Viñales and Cortese. The latter touched the Italian, almost taking him out, but Tonucci managed to finish in third place (his best result in the championship).
Romano Fenati (Team Italia FMI FTR Honda#5) got off a better start, but could not match the pace at the front and stayed at the margins of the Top 10. He confirmed his talent in adapting to new tracks, and fought against Vasquez, Sissis, Rossi and Antonelli to close in tenth place and add more points to preserve his lead in the Rookie standings (+ 7 on Rins).
Alessandro Tonucci (Team Italia FMI FTR Honda#19) 3rd, + 2"352
"It was a fantastic race. I love this track and to conquer my first podium at Honda's home is a dream come true. The team and I worked well all week-end, improving every day. I want to thank my family, my girlfriend, FMI and the team. They supported me during hard times and I dedicate this podium to them."
Romano Fenati (Team Italia FMI FTR Honda#5) 10th, + 16"129
"I started well but I got stuck in the third group after a few laps and lost my rhythm. The tires were gone by the end of the race, so I just tried to avoid mistakes and bring home a good result. I have to compliment Tonucci on his result. We're a good team. I can't wait to head to Malaysia."
Alfredo Mastropasqua (FMI Team Coordinator)
"Tonucci's podium is the reward for many years of sacrifices and teamwork. It's an emotional moment for him and the team. Fenati brought home a solid result, and put up a fight as usual. We got both our riders on the podium this season, and I want to thank Locatelli and the whole team for the hard work. With three races left, we want to keep up the momentum."
Team Italia FMI Press Release
