M2: TT Assen: Gresini Racing race report

ELIAS SECOND AT ASSEN

oni Elias produced a typically tenacious performance to seal an important result at Assen today with an unlikely second place. Thankfully the rider and team believed it was possible and even though Iannone dominated the race, with Elias unable to chase as he got held up by other riders, second place is still a very useful result in such an open championship as Moto2 and it helps extend his lead at the top of the standings.

Toni Elias (2nd): "After some poor results at Mugello and Silverstone to get back on the podium is perfect. I had a bit or trouble with Wilairot and Nieto at the start and lost precious time over the first two laps to Iannone that I couldn't make up once I got clear - he was very strong, just like at Mugello. I worked hard for this second place though and it is important for the championship. It gives me and the team a boost and it seems we have come through the bad spell we had in the last couple of races. "

Vladimir Ivanov (21st): "I am satisfied because after practice yesterday I didn't think I was capable of a race like this. The day started well with the warm-up and I got a good pace together. Now I am more convinced than ever that within a few races I will be in the points, which would feel as good as a win to me."

Fausto Gresini: "Today was an important result for us because Mugello did not go well and Silverstone was even worse. We were determined to get back into the right shape to fight for a good race. It was a close and combative race and even though we were well prepeare it wasn't easy. Second place is good for the championship and I'm sure this will give the whole team a boost."

-source: gresini racing