Rizla Suzuki MotoGP is on its way to Jerez in Spain for the final test in preparation for the 2009 MotoGP season.
Following two successful tests at Sepang in Malaysia and Losail in Qatar, Chris Vermeulen and Loris Capirossi will be planning to continue with the encouraging start to the year that has seen both riders near the top of the timesheets at both tests.
The Official MotoGP Test at Jerez will also see the launch of the Suzuki GSV-R in its new 2009 livery, following the announcement that Rizla will remain as title sponsor for this year.
The 4,423m long Jerez circuit is a regular test-track for MotoGP, and the southern Spanish venue will stage the first piece of competitive action of 2009 when the riders take to the track for a timed 45-minute session on the Sunday afternoon. The fastest rider in this allotted time will drive away with a brand-new car.
Rizla Suzuki will complete its pre-season preparations at Jerez on March 28/29 before heading back to Qatar for the first race of the season. Vermeulen and Capirossi will begin their assaults on the championship with the series’ one-and-only night race on Sunday April 12th.
Chris Vermeulen:
“The Jerez test can’t come soon enough for me. After the first two tests, where we have made some good advances, it will be interesting to see what improvements the factory has made after all the data we supplied from Sepang and Qatar - I am sure the technicians are doing all they can to find what we are looking for. The Jerez test will be interesting, as it will be the first time we’ve had a timed session - similar to a new qualifying session - with the single rule tyres. This will give us a good chance to gauge what we could possibly expect from qualifying in the coming season. This is our last test before the season starts so it will be very important for the whole team to get in as much work as possible and end the break from racing on a high!”
Loris Capirossi:
“We have had a good start to the year, but we must continue to improve. I am very fit at the moment and have been training everyday to get ready for the new season. I believe that Suzuki will give us a bike that we can win on and I can’t wait to see the latest version that we get at Jerez. I am really looking forward to the new season and I feel as prepared and fresh as I ever have done, so I just can’t wait to get racing!”
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