Vierge a solid sixth in racing debut at Mandalika, Lecuona on his way home

“Sixth is a solid result but, overall, it’s been a tough day. Since yesterday’s FP1 the track conditions have been tricky to say at the least, with lap times dropping by seconds every session and this made the work with the team really difficult because you never quite understand if the setup you are trying is going in a really good direction of if it’s simply the tarmac that is getting better. Having said that, we did a good job, qualifying in one of the best positions of the year and making no mistakes in a race where it would have been easy to make them. We were expecting a bit more honestly, but it is what it is and now it will be crucial to carefully analyse all the information we have to try and improve tomorrow and get closer to the top four, which I think is within our reach.”

“Not the best way to end a weekend, but this is racing and we know it can happen. I’m happy with the work we’ve done and with our performance. I want to thank the entire team for all their hard work. Today honestly, I don’t feel too bad, better than I was expecting after yesterday when I was really in a lot of pain. I didn’t sleep too well but am feeling better by the hour, and I could walk much better this morning. It’s a pity to miss the races of course, particularly as I was feeling great yesterday, P2 in the first session, but this is racing, as I said. Once I get home, I’ll undergo more medical checks, and then we’ll see. I want to thank everyone for the huge support I’ve received from the fans and from other riders who’ve texted me on social media, and I hope to be back soon.”