Chaz Davies completes first laps in five months at Catalan test

Chaz Davies completes first laps with his new GoEleven Ducati team on the first of two Official WorldSBK test days in Barcelona. Welshman finishes day-one ninth fastest.
Chaz Davies completes first laps in five months at Catalan test

Riders and teams enjoyed the first of two Official days testing in Barcelona, and for Chaz Davies, it was a welcome return to action after five months away. 

With the 2021 WorldSBK season not getting underway until late May, this is the sole Official test and therefore a prime opportunity to get preparations complete for many.

After seven years with the factory Ducati team, Davies joins the GoEleven satellite Ducati team for the 2021 campaign. 

The three-time championship runner-up remains well backed by Ducati heading into the new season and was ‘happy’ to finally get riding again. 

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Speaking after the first day of action, Davies said: "It has been a really positive first day on track! Obviously, after five months off, I expected to feel a bit rusty, but honestly my first exit it was like I have never been away. 

"So, I felt comfortable immediately and I had to tell myself not to push too hard too soon because the mind was in a sort of race pace mode, but the body I think is a little bit behind over the automated sort of reaction. 

"So just keep calm, but I am really happy with the day, I think it was really positive and I was very surprised that my best lap came quite easy. 

"I feel like I can improve quite easily, it was a really nice surprise for me." 

The focus for Davies wasn’t so much about testing parts, but instead getting laps under his belt and building up a comfortable base after recently recovering from Covid. 

"The main objective was just to ride the bike, but also to work and learn the new atmosphere and my new crew, from PJ the Crew Chief, to all the other Team members," added Davies. 

"The goal was just to work together to understand everybody's way of working, I think we will have a good season ahead of us!"

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