As already planned, Honda will have to do without Marc Marquez at the second Grand Prix in Qatar. While waiting for its spearhead to return to the track, the Repsol team will again rely on Stefan Bradl and newcomer Pol Espargarò.
The Spanish driver finished his first race on the RC213V in 8th place. A result that wasn’t all that exciting, but still the best among Honda riders, with Bradl 11th and the LCR duo not seeing the checkered flag. The first lap helped him gain experience and now he needs to take the opportunity to have a second GP on the same track.
“We’re getting ready to go again,” said Pol. “We got off to a positive start last week, but this is not the position we should be fighting for. The goal is to take another step this week and take one now.” Race, I feel much better prepared and have a clearer idea of what to expect. During the race we could see our strengths and weaknesses. We still have to work on qualifying to be further up the grid so that we have a better chance of a clean first lap. The journey has only just begun, and now it’s time to pick up the pace. ”
Stefan doesn’t have big goals for the overall standings, but it would still be important to put his Honda in a more noble position.
“Another week in Qatar. After last year it feels completely normal to drive two races on the same track, ”commented the German tester. “Qualifying will certainly be an important area to focus on alongside the normal jobs of a race weekend. If we can put together a solid weekend, the top ten are within our reach. Now that everyone has so much time here, it won’t be easy, but we know our potential. I don’t want to leave anything on the table for this second race. ”