We start at Phillip Island
First outing of the season for the Superbike on the Phillip Island circuit, where the two sessions took place during the Italian night free practice for the Australian Round. A Friday of ups and downs for the team Aruba.it – Ducatiespecially for the final results after a day that began with bad weather that gradually disappeared as the hours passed.
Bulega comes close to setting the best time
During the second session, the rookie Nicolò Bulega he came close to the fastest lap in the combined classification, finishing behind Alex Lowes' Kawasaki by just 59 thousandths of a second. On the other hand, the 24-year-old from Emilia has generated a gap of almost a tenth of an advantage over his compatriot Andrea Locatelli, followed in turn by Danilo Petrucci.
“It was a positive first day despite the rather difficult weather conditions, first due to the rain and then the wind – commented the winner of the last Supersport championship – I am particularly satisfied, however, with what we did in FP2 during which the feeling has improved significantly. The hope is to have good weather both tomorrow and Sunday.”
Difficulties for Bautista
More disappointing, however, was the performance of the reigning world champion Alvaro Bautista. In fact, the Spaniard did not go beyond the 12th position final also due to some pain that he is still experiencing from the accident that occurred in Jerez last November.“I can say this was a very special Friday for many reasons. The important thing, however, is that in the final part of FP2 the feeling improved a lot. We have found a good basis on which to work tomorrow morning to take that further step that will allow me to ride at my best. However, I am confident.”
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