Team San Carlo Honda Gresini rider Marco Simoncelli unequivocally confirmed his outstanding recent form with a stunning performance on the third and final day of testing in Malaysia. It had been coming, with the Italian making a strong start on the opening day and improving throughout yesterday. He was was also consistent throughout a race simulation today, which also proved positive. Hiroshi Aoyama also enjoyed an encouraging final day, building up his own self-confidence and the rapport with his new team.
Marco Simoncelli (1st 2´00” 757 42 laps): “I am really happy today. In the test at Valencia we realised that the new bike had potential and I already had a good feeling with it. Taking into account that this is not one of my favourite circuits we have still managed to build on our consistency from yesterday and this morning I was able to set an awesome lap. For the rest of the day we focused on a race simulation, setting a consistent pace and by the end of it I wasn’t on the limit like I was in the race here. Overall I am 100% happy. The team has worked brilliantly, the changes have integrated well and everything has gone perfectly. We have all improved, starting with myself, the guys and the bike, and I’m sure this year I’ll ‘be there’ too.
Obviously this is only the first test so we have to keep our feet on the ground and just continue like this.”
Hiroshi Aoyama (7th 2´01” 353 63 laps): “This morning we focused on set-up and we went well, which continued into the afternoon. They have been three useful and important days for us to understand that we can be strong this year. The team is really fantastic and we are already working in harmony. Now we will have a good look at the data and get ready for another important test here at Sepang.”
Fausto Gresini: “This is a real pleasure and a big boost for us. Simoncelli has been fantastic these last three days and I am delighted with him. We know we can be compettiive but this level of performance was above our expectations. It shows that we are contenders and I have to say I am feeling euphoric right now! Simoncelli deserves it because he has worked hard over the winter and I have been impressed by his determination. Naturally my thanks also go to Honda, who have provided us with an outstanding bike. All the guys are working well, San Carlo have once again showed their belief in us and together we are feeling very excited. Of course we have to stay calm and keep working hard but this is a fantastic day and I want to enjoy it!”
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