When the FIM stewards decided to impose a long run penalty on Zarco after contacting Pol Espargarò, who fell, there was some excitement in the Ducati pits. The sporting director of the Ducati team complained about the decision and wanted to clarify his position after the race.
“I think everyone can understand why we are so angry – he said – It was a completely wrong decision for us because Pol Espargarò made a mistake. He had recently crossed the finish line and seen on the signal board that Zarco was very close, so he knew. Pol went far and Johann made his normal trajectory inside. If a driver goes far, he must look at the trajectory before returning as he is not alone on the route.
Because Ciabatti Zarco was damaged by the incident.
“We can’t understand what Zarco’s fault was, he was inside and couldn’t brake because he leaned – he continued – it was Espargarò going inside him and the mistake was his mistake, it should have been Pol who was punished. Johann had a great race and would have finished second a very important result for a rider in his third race on a Ducati and for the Avintia team. Zarco managed to get on the podium and he deserved it, but his place would have been second and we’re angry about it. “
An objection is not possible in these cases.
“The IRTA managers only told us the punishment, they were only messengers, the decision was made by Freddie Spencer and the FIM stewards – he explained – We cannot appeal against this decision, which is wrong for us, We spoke to the race management, they gave their opinion, but fIt is clear from the pictures that Espargarò made a mistake because he did not look before re-entering the trajectory, while Zarco did nothing wrong. For us it is a completely wrong decision ”.