It wasn’t the perfect lap as Aleix admitted at the end of Q2, but Aprilia is still optimistic, especially in terms of pace during practice sessions, especially in FP4, with worn tires and in a racing configuration.
All of today’s sessions took place in dry track conditions, with Temperatures that were decidedly summeryS. The FP3s were still hot at the end and all drivers fought for a crucial time attack for access to the second qualifier. Aleix defended well, bringing his Aprilia to fifth, less than three-tenths behind. As already mentioned, he put in a long run in FP4, with good times, but above all with great consistency.
In qualifying, Aleix essentially repeated his performance from Q2 seven days ago when everything seemed to be improving significantly. Only a few shortcomings in the last lap prevented a place in the second row. Eighth place on the grid does not quite satisfy the Aprilia rider, who will concentrate on his good pace in order to recover.
“I’m really happy with the way we worked this weekend. Based on the data collected yesterday, we and the Aprilia guys changed the setup of the RS-GP again, and I have to admit that I had a practically perfect bike today. Unfortunately, the second row was not possible. I made a few mistakes on the good lapand that complicates our race a little. We know we are having some difficulties overtaking. It’s our Achilles’ heel, but I’m convinced that halfway through the race, when the grip starts to decrease, we can really play our cards. “
Then Aleix added some technical details.
“I’m happy that I shortened the bike a bit to have more grip. The new Michelin front is better for me too. I could have been in the second row and will only start 8th instead. My mistake. And overtaking is difficult here. The only problem is overtaking. If I had my pace and could let the bike flow through the corners, I could fight for the front. We did a better job this weekend than the previous one, but as I said, I have problems overtaking. “
Then he defended his friend Maverick Vinales, who was banned from Yamaha.
“He made a mistake.What he’s done isn’t great, but he didn’t kill anyone. We do stupid things under pressure. I think he’ll be racing again at Silverstone. “