San Carlo Honda Gresini rider Marco Simoncelli penalised at Japanese Grand Prix – MotoGP news
San Carlo Honda Gresini rider Marco Simoncelli started from sixth place on the grid in the Grand Prix of Japan and was penalised for making a jump start in the race on Sunday, October 2, 2011.
The Italian’s teammate Hiroshi Aoyama was 11th on the grid and managed a disappointing finish to his home event.
Simoncelli said, “I made a stupid mistake on the start line. The red light was slow to go out and out of the corner of my eye I saw Dovizioso move and let the clutch out just a tiny bit but enough to be given a ride-through penalty.”
Along with Simoncelli, Andrea Dovizioso and Cal Crutchlow also had to go through the pit line for their jump starts to the race.
Super Sic was extremely annoyed with his mistake which forced him to lose the fight for podium. Especially in a mistake-filled race where many riders made errors, it was a good chance to easily score second podium for him in the season.
After going through the penalty, Dovizioso and Simoncelli rejoined the race. Dovizioso instantly made back to the fourth position and Simoncelli gradually chased him to the fifth place.
The last two laps proved to be the decisive climax between the Honda Italians. After the comeback, Dovizioso defended his fourth position for several laps but in the last lap, Simoncelli made a pass and crossed the finish line in fourth place.
The other rider for Honda Gresini, Hiroshi Aoyama was motivated for his home event but unfortunately could not shine in the race. The Japanese rider claimed that it was a tough race and the low grip hampered him from pushing hard.
Aoyama said, “Yesterday was much better and I am struggling to explain why it didn't happen today. It is very strange but the change in track temperature definitely didn't help because I am struggling for confidence in the front as it is. We will make up
for it in the next race.”
Simoncelli and Aoyama will be looking forward to the Australian Grand Prix, taking place on October 16, 2011.
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