Honda Gresini’s Marco Simoncelli will be looking to maintain the momentum in Portugal this weekend after an encouraging run of the results in the recent three flyaway events, which yielded two sixths and one eighth.
Although the Italian, who only moved up to the MotoGP class this year, was pleased with his form in Australia two weeks ago, he wants to continue to progress in the final two events and ideally break into the top five, something he has yet to do.
"I was really satisfied with the race at Phillip Island but I want to see my performances reflected in numbers,” he said. “It was a nice race in Australia but it was still a sixth place in the end so I need to work on my consistency. It won't be easy but that is what I will be trying to do alongside the team.
“After Phillip Island I had a 'bonus trip' to Japan for another visit to the wind tunnel. Honda are looking at using a new cowling so that I can tuck my oversize frame in.
“As soon as I got home to Italy I started thinking about Estoril, a circuit I like a lot. I won there last year [in the 250cc class] and finished second in 2008 and it seems to be a place that suits my riding style so if we can find a good feeling with the bike I'm sure I can have another good race."
Team Manager Fausto Gresini has been impressed with Simoncelli’s recent pace: "Marco confirmed his progress over the three flyaway races at Phillip Island. He was focused and consistent for a good part of the race, battling with the front guys. He needs to take another little step now to be really competitive and I am sure with the help of the team he can do it,” Gresini continued.
“He is brave and hard working and these are the characteristics you need to stand out in such a competitive field as MotoGP.
“Honda have once again shown their belief in his potential by inviting him back to Japan for another wind tunnel test.
"There are two races left and at Estoril he has the chance to show another example of his progress and positive approach towards another successful season," he concluded.
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