M2: Portuguese GP: Gresini Racing race report

DISAPPOINTING DAY FOR ELIAS IN PORTUGAL

Toni Elias failed to finish a race for the first time this season in Portugal today, the Spaniard crashing out as he tried to recover positions. It is been a difficult weekend for the Moto2 World Champion, who has struggled since clinching the title he won in Malaysia but he remains hopeful of finishing on a high in his fourth home race of the season next weekend.

Toni Elias (n.c.) "I knew this was going to be a difficult race. It was tough at the start but when the track started to dry out everything was getting easier for us because we had a faster pace than the lead group. I thought I was going to be able to crach them but when De Angelis and Iannone passed me they ran me wide onto a damp patch and before I even realised it I was in the air. At Phillip Island the problem was the bike but here it was me! Luckily all this has happened after winning the title so that's okay. I am disappointed for the team though and I hope I can give them a victory to celebrate at Valencia, even though it isn't my favourite track."

Vladimir Ivanov (25th) "I took a step forward in the race -- not a massive one but an important one because it gives me the confidence to go to Valencia, have a good race and finish the season in positive fashion."

Fausto Gresini "We knew this was going to be a difficult race and that's what it turned out to be. Luckily the season is practically over for us and we already have the title in the bag. I am disappointed for Toni and his team though because I am sure they would all like to honour the title in a different way. We will try to do it at Valencia."

-source: gresini racing