Smith primed for Catalunya battle

Posted on Jun 09, 2015 by Monster Yamaha Tech 3

Monster Yamaha Tech3 Team riders Bradley Smith and Pol Espargaro are geared up and ready for round 7 at the Gran Premi Monster Energy de Catalunya. Both riders will intend to clinch two strong results after concluding the Italian Grand Prix in positive style aboard their Yamaha YZR-M1's. The twisting 4.7 kilometre circuit has held many memorable MotoGP battles in recent years and Smith as well as Espargaro will aim to ride to glory in the satellite riders battle in front of the ever passionate Catalan crowd.

Bradley Smith produced his best performance so far this season by clinching a hard fought result of 5th at Mugello and will seek put himself in the mix for a top six placement in the 25 lap sprint around the Circuito de Catalunya. He currently sits in 6th in the championship and at the front of the satellite MotoGP riders and will look to continue his positive form by adding more points to his tally of 57. 

Bradley Smith: – Championship: 6th –  Points: 57
"I will arrive at the Monster Energy sponsored Catalunya round confident of opening the weekend in positive style as we have been strong at almost every GP this season. It is a circuit that I enjoy with it's variety of different corners and the crowd is always amazing, especially in the last part of the track! In addition, the layout seems to suit the characteristics of the Yamaha YZR-M1 quite well, therefore, I'll be gunning for another top finish. In Mugello, the qualifying didn't go to plan so I aim to rectify this in Catalunya and grab a solid starting position to give me the best possible chance of success in the race. We also have a test on Monday where we will try out a few new ideas in order to help me in various areas as we look to bridge the gap to the leading riders. However, before that, there's the Catalan Grand Prix and my fists are clenched already for the battle on Sunday, which I can't wait to partake in."

Hervé Poncharal - Team Manager:
"Bradley continues to confirm his progress each race and with the Yamaha suiting the Catalunya track, we are confident that he will be able to run where he was at Mugello and fighting for the leading satellite position. It's a great race and one with a superb crowd who really show their love for our sport. So, we aim to hit the track at speed to make them cheer even louder!”