Gear problem ends Fabrizio podium streak

Technical problems prevented Michel Fabrizio from maintaining his streak of podium finishes during the latest round of the World Superbike Championship at Donington Park, although the Italian made amends in the second race with a run to third position.

Having moved his way into title contention following a run of eight consecutive podium results, Fabrizio was confident of a race win challenge from fifth on the grid after breaking the lap record during qualifying.

However, a gear problem on his Ducati Xerox during the first race couldn't prevent him from tumbling down the classification as the laps wore on, Fabrizio eventually crossing the line 12th.

"Race one was very difficult, I had a problem with the gears and because of this I lost several positions. I couldn't do much to improve the situation and in the end I could only bring home three points."

Reverting to his spare bike for the second race, Fabrizio suffered a slow start but able to work his way back into podium contention, where he proceeded to enjoy a tight battle with Leon Haslam. Although he would lose out to the British rider, he was satisfied with his third place finish.

"Before race two we decided to go out with the second bike. I again made a bad start but immediately started to work to regain ground. I spent most of the race battling it out against Byrne and Haslam, just managing to pass Shakey near the end."

Fabrizio went on to turn his attentions to team-mate Noriyuki Haga following the accident that has landed him in hospital.

"I'm happy with my race two result but I am of course sorry for Nori. I saw the accident and it reminded me of Troy's crash in the same place two years ago, both serious."