Huge improvement in qualifying delights De Puniet

LCR Honda MotoGP rider Randy de Puniet rode to sixth place on Saturday with a best lap time of 1’34.074 in a thrilling qualifying session ahead of Sunday’s 28-lap race.

The Frenchman and his crew made some notable changes to the set up of his RC212V after Friday’s technical issues and the adjustments worked well as the 29 year-old recorded the seventh fastest lap time in the Saturday morning practice.

The 60-minute qualifying session later in the afternoon saw De Puniet in strong form as he secured sixth spot on the grid, making him the second fastest Honda in front of his home crowd.

Randy de Puniet

“I am very happy with this result as yesterday’s session was very tough for us, and after the practice I said I knew the setting was not right. I felt very frustrated because I could not lap as I wanted to and the bike was very nervous. But the guys did an excellent job and this morning I immediately felt more comfortable. Then we took a step forward in the qualifying by obtaining the second row – the third time this season. Everybody in the team is very pleased with this result and I want to thank them for their efforts. This race is really special for me and I hope to finish towards the front, especially for my fans. I am a bit worried about the start though as it is very difficult to overtake on this track.”