After a torrid time in qualifying for the Monster Energy Grand Prix De France, LCR Honda‘s Toni Elias had an eventful, yet fruitful race. After starting in 17th, Elias had a great start and was immediately involved in a race long battle with Ãlvaro Bautista, Hector Barbera, Loris Capirossi and Karel Abraham.
After a tussle which saw all the riders swapping positions all over the track, with 15 laps to go Elias suffered a small high side which he managed to get under control, at the cost of hitting his foot against the bike. But in the end he managed to claim a moral boosting 11th place, and 5 championship points, before his home grand prix at Catalunya on June 5th.
After the race, Elias was positive. “We have been afraid about the warm up of the tyres because the track temperature was colder compared to the practices but at the end it was not so bad. Our rear traction problem is not solved yet but now I can see progressive improvements and I want to thank the team for their good work.”
He continued. “When I was leading the small group in the back I thought that I could catch Aoyama but suddenly I have suffered a bike shaking, banging my feet on the fairing. My leather security airbag activated and I could not ride properly for a couple of laps till it went down. After that I pushed to catch the group again but could not finish in the top ten.”
” Anyway it has been a positive weekend and I hope to see a further improvements at my home GP.”
