M2: Valencian GP: Gresini Racing race report

ELIAS GIVES IT EVERYTHING TO THE END

Toni Elias made a win or bust attempt to take the glory in his home race at Valencia today but it wan't to be in his final race on a Moto2 bike. The new World Champion crashed on the final lap as he attempted the impossible -- his eighth victory of the season. However, he was quickly forgiven by the partisan local crowd, who cheered him back to the garage in honour of the title he won in Malaysia last month.

Toni Elias (30th) "I gave 200 per cent to win this race and maybe that was the problem! Over the course of the season I have ridden with caution and tried to avoid getting involved in hand to hand combat but with the title in the bag I went for the win at all costs. Unfortunately I collided with Iannone and crashed but I went down fighting and trying something impossible so I'm still happy. It has been an amazing season and I wanted to give the team one last gift before I leave because they have done a great job."

Vladimir Ivanov (29th) "Unfortunately I haven't been able to finish the season with the performance I was looking for. I wanted to end on a high but it wasn't possible today."

Fausto Gresini "It was a difficult race but it was wonderful to watch. Toni had the pace to win today and he did the right thing in going for it. Maybe without the mistake he would have done it but for us this feels like a victory anyway and I want to thank him for everything he has done for the team, who have always tried to give him everything throughout this special season. Thank you Toni!"

-source: gresini racing