Aleix Espargaro (Team Suzuki Ecstar) took an impressive P4 at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan in manufacturer Suzuki’s home race, after fighting for the podium in the earlier stages and then finally just losing out to teammate Maverick Viñales. Espargaro, who is feeling more and more comfortable on the bike after recent improvements found in testing, was disappointed to not get another rostrum finish – but happy with a weekend spent squarely in the fight at the front.
Aleix Espargaro (P4): “I’m disappointed for the final result because I was expecting a little more, but at the end of the day the whole weekend has been very positive. We did a great job, and finally we are seeing the improvements I was waiting for. It was the first time in the season I managed to stay very close to the head of the race and fight for the podium, so it’s a pity I couldn’t get up there, I tried all I could but finally I had to settle in fourth. It is my best result of the season and I’m proud of it. I’m happy that the next race will be immediately next weekend, we keep the focus and we’ll try to continue this positive period we’re having.”