Augusto Fernandez and Jonas Folder of GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 made the most of the sunny conditions at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto on Sunday afternoon, despite the checkered flag falling to mark the end of the day’s testing. The team continued to work hard, logging more laps on their GASGAS RC16s during the first two one-day tests for the 2023 season.
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Fogler
Augusto Fernandez is working hard to refine the setup of his race bike by grinding out more laps of the 4.4km course. His eyes are set on the forthcoming Grands Prix in France, Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Meanwhile, Jonas Folger is eagerly soaking up more track mileage, knowledge, and confidence after two intense race events with the team and on the GASGAS MotoGP machinery.
Despite the challenging weather conditions of sunshine, high temperatures, and breezy winds, the riders manage to notch the 18th and 21st quickest laps at Jerez. GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 is excited about their upcoming ‘home’ fixture with the SHARK Grand Prix de France at Le Mans in mid-May.
On Monday, the Jerez track was buzzing with activity as MotoGP race teams in Spain took advantage of the opportunity to test new parts, ideas, and setup solutions.
Tyres
With the Michelin rubber etched across the 13 turns, riders and technicians spent hours on the track, pushing themselves to the limit in the quest for more competitiveness.
It was a productive day for Augusto Fernandez, with the rookie completing almost 70 laps and ranking 18th fastest. Similarly, Jonas Folger got further in sync with the GASGAS RC16, completing 63 laps and coming in the 21st quickest. With three long days at the venue now behind them, the teams will be looking forward to the next challenge at Le Mans.
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Quote
Augusto Fernandez, 18th position: “A busy test, but pleased with everything we tried. I think we made a good step in terms of race pace, and I felt an improvement. Our work helped me at this track, which will also be good for future races. A positive day, so now I cannot wait for Le Mans.”
Jonas Folger, 21st position: “It was an important day for me, for us. I was able to fix some issues I had during the weekend. We found solutions, especially with my riding. I made a step, so I’m satisfied. We also played around with some settings and found a direction I think will give us some good confidence to start in Le Mans. I was more consistent, and the pace was better than during the GP, so thanks to everyone for the work.”
Goyon
Nicolas Goyon, GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 Team Manager: “Our first test after the start of the season, so it was an important day for a rookie to back-check some things and try others on the bike and with his riding style. Augusto could ride without the stress of a race weekend, which was productive for him.
He also had a few aero upgrades to try, which was also positive, so thanks to the group for bringing those. Jonas was more focused on rideability but also worked with aero parts to be more comfortable on the bike and improve ergonomics.
He should have a better base as a test rider. We did a positive job, over 60 laps for each rider and a slightly improved lap time for Augusto compared to qualification at the GP. Thanks to the whole team and group.”
Sebastian Risse, GASGAS Technical Manager: “We had an intense race weekend – because we are now up to pace with the bike – and we were able to continue and learn about some new developments. Thanks to the team’s work today, we were able to be clearer about parts we want to use in the next races, and we’re very much looking forward to the next GPs.”
