Poncharal: “We hope that Toseland can catch up”

Like the factory Yamaha garage, the satellite team’s Grand Prix base is divided by a wall in 2009. Unlike the main squad, however, Monster Yamaha Tech 3 have just one man overseeing both riders. Said Team Principal is Herve Poncharal, who has seen mixed results from his charges over the course of the opening three races of the year.

Top ten efforts from Colin Edwards have contrasted with early difficulties for James Toseland, and Poncharal has the task of spurring both on to better things in the forthcoming races. Following a tough race for both riders at Jerez, the Frenchman reflected on the third round in philosophical fashion.

“With the same tyres for everybody, all the riders were always going to be close together. We knew that it would not be easy to be up at the front with that group. We’ve got some good points for the World Championship, but for Colin it was definitely not as good as the first two races, where we were much nearer to the front,” Poncharal analysed.

“On James’ side, it’s still difficult. I was hoping for an easier race. I think that his pace was good enough for the top ten, but when you qualify so far down then it’s always hard now. Qualifying will be even more important this year than it has ever been.

“We’re really hoping that James can catch up. He’s trying really hard and we would like to see some sun on that side too.”

Poncharal concluded by saying that the team were targeting a first podium and front row of the season at their home race, the Grand Prix de France at Le Mans.