M2: German GP: Gresini Racing Friday report

POSITIVE FIRST DAY FOR ELIAS DESPITE CRASH

It could have been worse. That was the final reflection for Team Gresini rider Toni Elias on a day that saw him crash his Moriwaki MD600 but saw it fixed in time to return to the track to contest the remainder of the opening free practice for the German Grand Prix. Fifth place overall is a positive result considering the circumstances and gives the Spaniard a solid base to work from tomorrow, with grid positions always at a premium at the tight and twisty Sachsenring. As such, the work done by Toni and his team tomorrow will be crucial.

Toni Elias ( 5th 1' 26" 826) "I crashed in a fast corner and I was lucky. I made a mistake on the way into the turn and lost control of the bike. Thankfully it didn't bounce too high and the damage was limited. Thanks to the track marshals and my team I was able to get back on track within just a few minutes, recover my confidence and finish fifth fastest. I am happy because it could have been a lot worse, I was running up front before the crash and I'm inside the top five anyway so it wasn't a bad day overall."

Vladimir Ivanov (28th 1' 27" 879) "I'm a little disappointed I didn't find a good feeling with the tyres today and I couldn't get confident on the bike. We have to work hard because I know I can and must do much better at this track. We'll see tomorrow."

Fausto Gresini "Apart from the crash at the start of the session, which set our work programme back a little, I have to say we're in decent shape. We did a good job towards the end of the session and finished it in a positive way. Toni quickly recovered his feeling with the bike so he is happy and he should be able to improve his position tomorrow. It is fundamental to start from the front row at this circuit and Toni has the tools to do it. "

-source: gresini racing