M2: Portuguese GP: Gresini Racing Friday report

ELIAS THIRD AT ESTORIL A day of changeable weather at Estoril saw a heavy downpour this morning followed by a wet afternoon that dried by the end of the second Moto2 session, allowing Toni Elias the opportunity to fit slick tyres and set the third ...

ELIAS THIRD AT ESTORIL

A day of changeable weather at Estoril saw a heavy downpour this morning followed by a wet afternoon that dried by the end of the second Moto2 session, allowing Toni Elias the opportunity to fit slick tyres and set the third fastest time of the day. It was a crucial decision given that it gives the new World Champion some important data and a good position on the time sheets ahead of another day of predicted bad weather tomorrow.

Toni Elias ( 3rd 1'51" 359) "In the last few minutes of the session we made an important decision to change to slick tyres. It was a bit of a risk but it paid off because I was able to lap third fastest and looking at the weather forecast you never know what could happen tomorrow. We did a good job and once again the relationship between the team and I was really good, proving exactly why we were able to win the championship with races to spare."

Vladimir Ivanov (35th 1'58" 814) "Another performance that wasn't exactly pleasing given the weather conditions. It is a shame but we will try to improve tomorrow."

Fausto Gresini "The weather was particularly strange today and the choice to fit slicks even though the track was still damp in places was a risky one but Toni and the team made the right choice and picked up an important third place. It was important for us to be up at the front today and Toni managed it, which was what counted."