Dovizioso bidding to build on podium, Petrucci back to full fitness
Andrea Dovizioso says he knows where he needs to extract more speed from his Ducati as he looks to build on an otherwise promising start to the 2020 MotoGP World Championship season in this weekend’s Andalusia MotoGP.
A re-run of the season opener in Jerez, Dovizioso landed his first-ever podium around the circuit which has traditionally struggled to favour the Ducati machinery, the Italian’s result coming just over two weeks after he injured his shoulder in a training accident.
Using all of his experience to haul the GP20 into a competitive position, Dovizioso was nonetheless cynical about the bike’s pace relative to the Yamaha and Marc Marquez on the Honda. Despite this, he says he is confident can make a breakthrough this weekend.
“After such an intense race weekend, I took advantage of these days to continue my rehabilitation after the collarbone surgery. Last Sunday's result was good, and we managed to get positive feedback from the first Grand Prix of the year.
“We arrive ready at the second race and, above all, knowing better the aspects that we will have to improve to get more speed. It will be important to continue the work in this way, continuing to accumulate the maximum points without making mistakes.
“Temperatures will once again be very high, and the race will be physically tough. I want to wish Marc, Alex and Cal a speedy recovery. I hope to see them again on the track soon."
His first race weekend since it was confirmed he will be dropped from the Ducati squad for the 2021 season, Danilo Petrucci struggled with ailments picked up in an accident during testing. However, he is expecting a more competitive weekend now he is back to full fitness.
"I can't wait to race again in Jerez. After the last two days of rest, I feel much better: I managed to solve the stomach issues and also my neck muscle is fine. I know we have the potential to fight for the positions that count: Dovizioso, Miller and Bagnaia have shown that, so my goal for this race will be to stay in the top five.
“Although it is not an ideal track for our bike, I am sure that without physical problems I will be able to improve my performance. I also hope that Marc, Alex and Cal can recover well from their injuries and get back on track very soon."
