De Angelis uninjured after crash

De Angelis uninjured after crash

Alex de Angelis escaped unhurt from a high-speed crash during the 250cc race at Valencia on Sunday. The San Marino rider, looking to end an impressive rookie World Championship campaign on a high note, had made a superb start and was comfortably holding third place in front of Toni Elias and Randy de Puniet.

Desperate not to let Sebastian Porto and new World Champion Dani Pedrosa make a break at the front of the field, De Angelis was riding on the limit when he was caught out by a nasty high-side exiting the Doohan Corner on lap four.

The bike was working well but I used a new tyre in the race and it wasnt one that we had used much during the practice and qualifying, explained De Angelis.

It was a bit of a gamble and right from the start of the race I was riding on the limit. I didnt want to lose touch with the group in front but unfortunately I crashed.

Despite a disappointing end to a hugely promising season, De Angelis managed to finish fifth in the overall rider standings with 147 points, including two podiums and nine other top six finishes.

I have a had a very good year and Id like to thank my team, Aprilia and sponsors for helping me so much in 2004, he said.

I have learned a lot more than I expected and with that experience I am hoping to be fighting for the world championship.

Watch De Angelis crash again by clicking on the video link at the top of the page.