Fans have filled the Misano circuit (as much as possible due to Covid restrictions) since the morning. As always, there is a lot of yellow in the stands and it couldn’t be otherwise, as this is Valentino’s penultimate appearance on the home track. But if the Doctor didn’t offer much in qualifying, Pecco Bagnaia could instead be the driver destined to fill the void his mentor left next year. His second pole position in a row (complete with a track record) after the one in Aragon could crown the Ducati rider from Piedmont.
“It is impossible to repeat what Valentino has done in his career“Said Pecco. “But like him, I want to share his passion for motorcycling. It’s very hard to get his results, but one day I want to have my own “Yellow People”, as he calls his fans. It’s great to see the grandstands full of fans.”
With certain results, you have them …
“A week ago I was in Aragon and had some wonderful sensations. It’s the same today. I immediately felt really good with the bike. Everything was always fine. Even when it was wet, I did a great job without fighting at the beginning like last time. I’m ready for both conditions and a great fight. “
It can rain tomorrow. Would you prefer that?
“No, because it’s easier to make mistakes, especially on a track like this that doesn’t have good grip in the wet. I know there would be a chance to narrow Quartararo in the ranking, but I’m 53 points behind. That is much. And I have to reduce it further. I think I can have a good fight with him tomorrow, but Miller and Rins have good pace too. “
How much does the win from last Sunday weigh this weekend?
“The motivation is definitely higher and the race at the home GP is always something special, so the combination of both helped me. I’ve also ridden the Panigale here a lot this year and have always enjoyed it. This was one of the worst tracks for me, but after a lot of training it became one of my favorites. I like it because it’s very technical and I was able to get here very quickly. I’m very focused and I want to try to entertain the audience tomorrow.”
No doubt? Not even for the tires?
“I used the soft on the rear last year and it worked well. It does even now, but so does the medium. It will be difficult to find out which one to choose. “