Team San Carlo Honda Gresini youngster Niccolo Antonelli made his first appearance at one of the most famous motorsport venues in the world today, completing first free practice for the Moto3 Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. A damp track this morning following an overnight thunderstorm made it difficult for the rookie to learn the layout and his task was not made easier in the afternoon when he was run off track by Alan Techer. However, it was a valuable day's work that will serve him well ahead of tomorrow's qualifying practice.
Niccolo’ Antonelli (19th 1’ 51” 724) “I didn't want to take any risks during the session this morning so we went out with wet weather tyres on to just try and learn the layout. In the afternoon I tried to push harder but I was run off track by another rider and that cost us valuable time. It was a shame but we were still able to work out what didn't work and I am sure we will make big improvements tomorrow. We have a few problems with the front end that I am sure the team can work out but I like the track and I am confident.”
Fausto Gresini “The position after two sessions doesn't do justice to the job done by Niccolo today and I think we'll see that reflected in qualifying tomorrow. He was rightly careful this morning and in the afternoon he would have done much better if it wasn't for another rider. Anyway we know which way we have to go with the bike and he will work with the team to make sure he is more competitive tomorrow.”
Honda Gresini Moto3 Press Release
Honda Gresini Moto3 Press Release
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