Exceptional weekend for Pedrosa. Astral alignment of set up, conditions, rider and machine. Reminds me of Misano last year. Classic Pedro holeshot, commanded the race throughout. First win in Spain since 2013 and winner of the 3,000th GP joining Nieto (1,000th) and Doohan (2,000th). Managed the race beautifully - Marquez rolling off having intimated yesterday that he might not be able to match Dani's race pace - rode for the championship.
Both of Vudu's banners at half mast today - which is a shame because I wanted to see them at the cutting edge. Seriously though, At least it's closed up the championship. I've suggested before that the M1 struggles with the hard front compound- but both Zarco and Folger rode great races on last year's chassis. Wrong decision in that factory garage? JT is convinced that this is another Michelin inconsistency, yet why did it afflict one team? . Dani competitive again in the heat. As Márquez acknowledges, Dani is always strong in these conditions particularly now Michelin have a softer feel to the carcass. Expect renewed calls for the #70.
Have to say, the transformation of the Repsol Hondas has been remarkable since qualifying day at COTA. The RCV may turn out to be the weapon of choice this season. All of a sudden, this is the smoothest I've seen a Honda since the 800cc era. They suddenly look completely planted on what today was a very hot and greasy surface. Be interesting to see how they fair at a cooler Le Mans, although the resurfacing of the Bugati has ironed out the bumps of old so the Yamahas may not be able to exploit their customary advantage. Would have been interesting to see how the RCV behaved. The ripples at Catalunya will be interesting.
Completely wrong about Lorenzo - but I'm sceptical as to whether he would have clinched third had the Factory Yamaha team not been crucified by the tyre selection.
Miller has apologised for his shove on Alvaro but not without criticism of the dickbrained move that took them both out. Miller fined €1,000. Bautista seemed contrite without directly admitting culpability.
For the fourth meeting in a row, I'll finish with ...Zarco. Real deal.
("anyone that knows anything about racing could see that coming" blah blah blah)
- first podium imminent.
Significantly, Johann said that Lorenzo was strong throughout the corner - entry mid corner speed and exit and that he simply couldn't fight back. This will have imbued Lorenzo with confidence but I don't expect him to be able to fight again until Mugello.
