The MotoGP action kicked off on Friday on KTM homelands as the CryptoDATA Motorrad Grand Prix von Österreich marked the thirteenth round of the 2022 MotoGP calendar. Both Remy Gardner and Raul Fernandez were looking to start the weekend well, although the weather did not say its last word.
On a wet track, Remy Gardner set off for the first time with his KTM RC16 on the new Red Bull Ring, which he admitted he has enjoyed today. Cautious on a drying track, the Australian rode in 1’35.095 this morning, before improving in the afternoon on drier conditions. His personal best of 1’31.324 placed him in P23 at the end of the first day. The rookie admitted feeling good today despite a crash in FP1 without any major damages, and he will look to continue the work tomorrow.
Teammate Raul Fernandez was also eager to try out the Austrian layout in the MotoGP class this morning, even though the track conditions were a bit tricky. He seemed to gain confidence as the track dried up throughout the first session, and got a personal best lap of 1’33.796. In the afternoon, he suffered a small crash whilst trying to push, but still went faster than the morning, in 1’31.978. He will look to improve tomorrow, hopefully in better track conditions, in order to grab a good grid position on KTM Turf.
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Remy Gardner
Position: 23rd
Time: 1'31.324
Laps: 38
"The weather was a bit strange today so we were unable to take full advantage of the tyres, but the day was good overall. We know what we need to do for tomorrow, so I look forward to tomorrow already."
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Raul Fernandez
Position: 25th
Time: 1'31.978
Laps: 38
"The day was good overall despite the tricky conditions. I had a good second free practice session in the afternoon, but I made a small mistake which caused a crash and I was unable to try the soft tyres. Anyway, I am really happy with the steps we have made today on the bike, the feeling is good, so I will work hard tomorrow because I think that we can have a good day."
