After an outstanding FP1, Patrick Hobelsberger surprised the whole WorldSSP paddock by setting the 3rd fastest time of the day with a 1.35.7. Unfortunately the German rider could not participate in FP2 due to a technical problem that forced him to stay in the pits. Patrick had a minor crash at the end of FP1, forcing his technical team to repair the bike in less than two hours.
Valentin Debise had his second day on board the GMT94 Yamaha R6. With the 5th best lap time of the day, Valentin had a good Friday. The rider from Albi lost a few tenths following a small mistake in the last sector, but had a good race pace.
Jules Cluzel had difficulties with the grip on the rear tyre, and some drops of rain arrived when he put his new tyre, he finished the first day in 8th position.
Patrick Hobelsberger : “I felt very good on the bike this morning. I am particularly surprised by the quality of the engine brake. In terms of suspensions, I have more or less what I know from the IDM, so I feel confident on the bike. I’m delighted because I received a very warm welcome from GMT94, so I’m even more eager to do well.“
Valentin Debise : “I’m happy because we made progress throughout the day. It is possible to go very fast with this Yamaha R6, the engine brake is good, the engine too, and the team was able to bring what I needed to feel at 100%. I had to have a different approach to the track, because I don’t feel the bumps thanks to the bike set-up. The team did a great job, there’s still room for improvement for tomorrow, I’m going to have some fun.“
Jules Cluzel : “Today I had to learn the track, which many of my opponents already knew. Both my team-mates have raced here before and it will be interesting to compare our data tonight. We didn’t choose the right tyre in FP2, and some rain drops came when we started with the right tyre.“
Christophe Guyot: “We can be satisfied with this first day. Patrick and Valentin adapted very quickly to our Yamaha R6. The team brought some extra elements during the sessions and the riders could progress throughout the day. Jules was not comfortable today, but I am not worried as he is still capable of being fast in the race.“
See you tomorrow at 10:30 am (local time) for the Superpole and then at 15:15 (local time) for Race 1, live on Eurosport and/or www.worldsbk.com
