Lecuona earns points in 14th, unfortunate Catalan GP for Oliveira
Starting from 19th on the grid, Red Bull KTM Tech3’s Iker Lecuona didn’t face an easy task in today’s Gran Premi de Catalunya. Following difficult practices, the MotoGP rookie was targeting to regain his confidence aboard the KTM RC16 and gain some experience in the ultra-competitive premier class. Eventually, Lecuona did a consistent race, making up several positions and finally crossed the line in 14th, which earns him two World Championship points.
On the other hand, Miguel Oliveira qualified in 12th, came off the line well fought hard to arrive inside the top 10, while fighting off the challenge of brand colleague Brad Binder. With nine laps to go, the Portuguese occupied ninth position, but was unlucky to go down just two laps later when his front tyre cooled down without having another rider in front of him.
Iker Lecuona:
“In the end, I’m quite happy that I finished the race, which was my target, as I struggled a lot this weekend and it was difficult for me. Finally, I could enjoy the race a bit and managed to regain a better feeling. I was fighting with a small group and finished in the points. Finally, I hit my target to finish the race and even scored some points. I’m really happy. Thanks to the team for all the support this weekend, as it was really difficult for me. I’m sure we will be better in Le Mans.”
Miguel Oliveira:
“It’s sad to end the race like this. We had very challenging conditions and expected to be competitive and for that we needed to use the medium front. The temperature was quite low today, so it took me just one lap with no slipstream to cool down the tyre and when I went to the left side, there was no way I could save the crash. It’s a shame, because even if I went slow, it was worse, so the conditions were tough to use the medium front, but we needed to go for it to be a little bit competitive. This is racing. I hope we can get back to the front in Le Mans, the home race for the team. I want to do well there, also for the championship, so I’ll try to be there again.”
