Vierge and Gardner fired up and determined for the future after Jerez outing

The Tech3 Racing Team pair rounded off the competitive three-day IRTA test in Andalucía with two solid displays having completed more vital preparation work for the 2017 campaign. Xavi Vierge dug deep as he made steps forward with this season’s Mistral 610 and the Spaniard concluded the shootout a second back from the leading time after running an impressive pace throughout the event. Whilst Remy Gardner pushed hard to continue to gel with his Moto2 bike before finishing seven-tenths back from his teammate, having cut 0.630 from his best lap on the first day. The positive work leaves both riders eager for the final pre-season test, which starts on the 17^th of March at the Losail International Circuit in Qatar, with the season opener taking place one week afterwards.

Xavi Vierge

Position: 17^th - Time: 1'43.003 - Laps: 156

“I am pleased with what we achieved here at the IRTA test. Every day I tried new settings as well as parts and I am really happy with the overall results, but the most important thing that we learnt is that my race rhythm was very competitive when compared to the top riders. I need to improve my pace in the opening laps, but I’m sure this can be accomplished. I think that, respectfully, both the bike and myself have taken a big step forward from last year and that is encouraging. Thanks to the entire team for their hard work and we will be back on the track shortly for the last test in Qatar before the 2017 season begins."

Remy Gardner

Position: 27^th - Time: 1'43.752 - Laps: 139

“The team and I did our best throughout the three days in Jerez but it has been a bit tricky here and we couldn’t get to where we wanted to. There is work to be done, and we need to remain focused so that we can decide which direction to head towards next in order to get the best out of the bike. Our biggest issue today was that we couldn’t get the Mistral to stop pushing the front. So now, we have to rethink our strategy and then try again in Qatar in one week. Thanks to the guys for their efforts and I am looking forward to getting back on the Mistral soon."