Petrucci fastest for Tech 3 KTM team on limited final day

Sand and Dust was the big winner on day five of MotoGP testing in Qatar, as the extreme conditions brought out red flags and produced limited track time. 
Danilo Petrucci, Qatar MotoGP test, 12 March 2021
Danilo Petrucci, Qatar MotoGP test, 12 March 2021
© Gold and Goose

The final day of MotoGP testing was a non-factor at the Losail International Circuit, as wind, dust and sand combined to halt any extensive plans the teams and riders had. 

One of those teams hoping to have a full day was the Tech 3 KTM squad who have endured a difficult test so far. 

Many riders chose not to complete a lap, however, Danilo Petrucci was one of five to do so and finished fastest in what was a small positive from the day.

While the lap times have not been great over the four days so far for all KTM riders, the Italian is still very upbeat about the team's potential. "I’m pleased with the progress throughout our four days here at the Losail International Circuit," said Petrucci. 

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"Unfortunately, we couldn’t use this final day to improve further. Anyway, we have some clear ideas about what we need. I’m really looking forward to the first race.”

"I’m also very happy about the work with the team and the environment. Of course, we still need to improve, because our goal is to fight at the top. For the race weekend, we will start from zero, so I’m optimistic to begin this new adventure."

Team-mate Iker Lecuona chose not to join him on track and missed out on a day that had race runs and a time- attack planned. 

“Finally, it was very difficult to ride on this last day due to the conditions of the track and the weather, so together with my team I decided not to ride in order to not take any unnecessary risks," said the Spaniard. 

“Overall, I learned a lot during these four days of testing. I improved a lot, although my lap time is not the best yet.

"Today I wanted to try to do a long run and a time attack, which unfortunately was not possible due to the weather. For sure, there’s a lot of work left for us.

"During the Grand Prix weekend, we need to check several things, but I feel that we can improve already on Friday in order to be closer to the top 10 during the first race.”

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