Pol Espargaro (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) is the last man able to defeat Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda) in the fight for Top Independent team rider in 2016, as he sits 17 points in arrears heading into the last round. But with a new horizon at Red Bull KTM Factory Racing just around the corner, Espargaro’s goal is simply to finish his three-year relationship with Monster Yamaha Tech 3 on a high and as far forward as possible; the occasion made all the more special given the race is on home turf.
Pol Espargaro: "Valencia is always important because it is where we end the season and it is also another home race. However, this year is going to be a bit more special, and I am going to compete at this event with the grandstands full of fans! It will be my last track appearance with Yamaha and the Monster Tech3 team after three really incredible years, with some great and some not so good moments, but I have learnt a lot in this period with a big group of professionals that have been like a family to me. I'm really looking forward to enjoying this weekend where I will try to complete this adventure with a highly satisfying result. I like the track and I am happy about how I have performed there in the past, such as in 2015, which was a difficult year but I was still able to end up in the top 5. Obviously, it's going to be difficult to repeat this, because the factory bikes such as Ducati and Suzuki, are much more competitive, and we are struggling a bit in a few areas. We will see how I feel with the Michelin tyres and if the weather does not interfere, then I want to have the best possible conclusion, but whatever happens, I will give my best as always."