Xavier Simeon's hopes of a points finish at Misano were scuppered at the very first corner after a collision with Mika Kallio. The Belgian was optimistic ahead of today's race despite qualifying 23rd but contact with the Suter caused irreparable damage to the Mistral 610.
“I had such a good start. When I entered the first corner (Mika) Kallio touched my bike and I crashed. I ran to my bike after the crash to pick it up and continue, but I could see that water was running out of it, so I had to give up. It is really a pity as again this morning in Warm up I was once again faster and I had such a good feeling for the race. I am sure I could have finished in the Top 15 again and gain some important points. That is racing. Apart from that the weekend did go very well and I will have to concentrate for Aragón now to get a good result there.”
With Simeon's major sponsor represented at Misano, Tech 3 Team Manager Herve Poncharal was sad that he was unable to put on a good show for them.
“I am very disappointed for Xavier as there was nothing he could do and to be taken down by someone in turn one is always a big shame. The whole RTL Top Management was here for the first time and for sure there was some pressure on Xavier as there was some expectations from their side. And I would have liked to show them Xavier’s true potential, as he was ready for a strong race. Unfortunately this can happen. The only thing he could have done would have been to qualify a bit better as in Moto2 if you have to start in the middle of the field these things can happen. I hope Xavier keeps his spirit high and goes to Aragón to show his potential as we believe in him and we are sure he can do much better.”
