Espargaro gives Suzuki first pole since 2007

Aleix Espargaro gave Suzuki their first pole positive since the 2007 Dutch TT with the Spaniard thrilling the home crowd with a stunning lap. With Maverick Vinales second fastest it was a terrific day for Suzuki and while their advantage had more to do with their use of the softer Open class tyre than their engine upgrades this was another milestone for Suzuki to pass.

Jorge Lorenzo was third fastest ahead of Marc Marquez, Andrea Dovizioso and Dani Pedrosa. Lorenzo has looked to have had a pace advantage all weekend but Marquez made strides in FP4 so tomorrow’s race could be very competitive at the front. Valentino Rossi will start from the third row for the fifth time in 2015 ahead of Bradley Smith.

Cal Crutchlow crashed on his final lap of the session having been on course for a first front row start of the season. Pol Espargaro was another crasher and he’ll start his home race 11th on the grid.