Today saw the MotoGP World Championship field heading out again for the final preseason test of 2020 at the Losail International Circuit. Thereby, the Red Bull KTM Tech3 duo of Miguel Oliveira and Iker Lecuona could present their brand-new KTM RC16 colors for the first time on track.
Yet, Oliveira lapped the dusty circuit 42 times to conclude day one of three in 18th position, while premier class rookie Lecuona was the first rider leaving the pits this morning, completing 47 laps and finishing Saturday just 0.398 seconds behind his teammate in P20.
Miguel Oliveira
Position: 18th
Time: 1:55.737
Laps: 42
"This first day has been a bit tough, to be honest. We have been struggling slightly, especially to find traction with the rear tyre. The first day is always a bit tricky regarding the track conditions, therefore we couldn’t really start that early. We have a long way to go, still and I’m convinced, that we can be much more competitive than what we have shown today. We already have a few ideas in mind to try for tomorrow in order to improve the place and the speed."
Iker Lecuona
Position: 20th
Time: 1:56.135
Laps: 47
"The feeling for the moment is very positive. I improved throughout the day and was quicker on the last laps of my last run with used tyres. I managed to go a bit quicker following Miguel, which helped me a lot. I also try to learn from other riders. Today, I’m happy about our work. I know that I need to continue to learn and to improve, but step by step we are getting there."
