Lorenzo 'in good shape' from Aragon test gains

Jorge Lorenzo says recent tests at Misano and Aragon put Ducati ‘in good shape’ for the final third of the MotoGP season as he hopes for trouble-free running after the cancellation of the British MotoGP last time out.

The Ducati rider saw his momentum stalled at Silverstone, having gone into the British round fresh from victory in Austria, and looked a strong contender for victory having taken pole position on Saturday before Sunday’s cancellation due to safety concerns.

While Lorenzo accepts the canning of all three of Silverstone’s grand prix races was ‘the right decision’ and hopes to regain impetus having enjoyed productive tests at Misano and Aragon – circuits which host the next two MotoGP rounds.

Lorenzo was reported to be the fastest rider at last week's Aragon test for Ducati having unofficially matched the pole position time set by Movistar Yamaha's Maverick Vinales from 12 months ago.

“Misano is a circuit that I like a lot, and also the test we did there on August 19th was positive and it will allow us to start practice from a competitive base. Last week’s test in Aragon gave good results and helped us to keep in good shape with the bike, which is always useful.

“It’s sure to be a hard-fought race because here a lot of riders go really well, and I expect it’s going to be an exciting weekend. My feelings are good.

“What happened at Silverstone was a real shame, but in the end I think the right decision was taken. After missing a GP, we can’t wait to tackle this race and demonstrate that we can fight for good results until the end of the season.”

Following the cancellation of the British round Lorenzo remains third in the MotoGP riders’ standings and one point ahead of Ducati team-mate Andrea Dovizioso.

Lorenzo has an impressive record at Misano, and continues to hold the circuit lap record, with three pole positions at the past four rounds along with three wins and five podiums in his MotoGP career at the Italian track.

The Spanish rider led the opening stages of the wet Misano race 12 months ago before crashing out on lap seven.