Espargaro’s Highs and Lows at Austrian MotoGP: New Aero Excites but Mechanical Woes Hinder Progress

Pol Espargaro experiences a technical failure amid KTM's daring aerodynamic enhancements

Espargaro's KTM showcases compelling upgrades, yet he encountered a malfunction on Friday

Pol Espargaro experienced a tumultuous Friday at the Austrian MotoGP.

Competing as a surprise entry this weekend, KTM's test rider spent the practice sessions testing out some noticeable new components.

In the morning session, Espargaro secured the third position on the leaderboard, but a breakdown in the afternoon session halted his progress, relegating him to the 21st spot in the speed rankings as a consequence.

Results from Friday's Practice at the 2024 Austrian MotoGP, Red Bull Ring

"Espargaro described the morning as beginning on a high note, mentioning they completed numerous laps."

"The atmosphere was primed for an enjoyable weekend ahead."

"That's the rationale behind bringing a prototype bike here. We want to push them to their limits and observe if anything goes awry!"

"Things didn't unfold as expected. There was a minor hiccup, but everything turned out fine."

"In the later part of the day, we encountered multiple instances. It became necessary to discontinue the use of both motorcycles; we had to halt them. The motorcycle came to a stop."

"The issue stemmed from a mechanical fault."

Pol Espargaro discusses KTM's latest aerodynamics

KTM introduced numerous upgrades at their local race.

His RC16 featured prominently new wings mounted on the swingarm.

He's also installed a fresh muffler system.

It's still uncertain if Espargaro has received a new engine. Given his role as a test and wildcard rider, the current season's revised concession regulations allow him to compete using an engine specification that differs from those of the regular race riders.

Espargaro commented on the new aerodynamics, stating, "There was a noticeable change. That's the reason we introduced it."

"In the trial, we rapidly achieved pace, both in a single circuit and consistently throughout."

"We were soaring. That's the reason we compete here using this type of motorcycle, as we believed we had a strong opportunity for a successful weekend."

"That's the reason why, in tomorrow's efforts, we aim to put forward our utmost to secure a spot in Q2. We had a favorable opportunity to achieve that."

"However, everything must proceed according to plan without any further unexpected events!"

"As a test rider, our job is to evaluate items, and it's not uncommon for situations to deteriorate swiftly and without much effort."

"We'll aim for better fortune tomorrow."

Brad Binder emerged as the sole KTM contender among the top 10 during Friday's practice session, securing a fifth-place finish. Meanwhile, Pedro Acosta of Tech3 experienced a significant fall, marking a day he’d rather forget.

"Espargaro remarked that the circumstances for tomorrow are less than perfect."

"Two KTMs and I didn't make it past Q2. If there's a need to battle it out, they'll be in the mix, which isn't ideal. We're going to give it our best shot."

Discover More

Recent Updates

Current Headlines

Site Directory

Crash.Net

©1999-2024 Crash Media Group

Reproducing the content, whether entirely or partially, including texts, photos, or images, is strictly prohibited in any manner.