Moto2: ‘Dream come true’ for Vierge and Tech 3

Tech 3 Moto2 racer Xavi Vierge has admitted that yesterday’s podium finish at the Japanese Grand Prix was a ‘dream come true’ for him and his team, after making the absolute most of torrential rain at the Twin Ring Motegi to come home second behind Alex Marquez.

Able to stay smart throughout the race and deliver a strong performance at the end while locked in a four-rider battle with Hafizh Syahrin, Takaaki Nakagami, Francesco Bagnaia and Mattia Pasini, he put the hammer down to make his break and secure the Mistral bike’s first podium since Bradley Smith in 2011.

“I am so happy. It has been a very challenging weekend and the track conditions have been tough, but yesterday was a good day and today was even better! I finished the race in 2nd, which is amazing, and it is a dream come true. I have to say thanks to the Tech3 Racing Team for believing in me and working hard every day. Also, to my family who help to motivate and push me. Finally, of course, I have to thank my sponsors because without them none of this would be possible.”

And while the Spaniard was delighted with his result after the race, team boss Herve Poncharal was even more ecstatic after the race, heaping praise on the shoulders of his rider.

“The result is an incredible feeling for the Tech3 Racing Moto2 Team. We knew that there was a good possibility to do something exciting in the race after the qualifying because 3rd place for Xavi was already a great achievement. We were hopeful but with the conditions being tough and with the GP being shortened, we knew that a strong start would be crucial. The track was very slippery yet not only did Xavi qualify like a true champion but today he rode like a lion.

“When I saw him losing a few places halfway through the sprint, I thought that maybe a top five would be interesting. However, you could see that he wanted the podium and he caught the guys in front of him to finish 2nd, which is more than a dream. I would like to thank the whole team because I know how hard they work and they don’t often get a reward like this. Great congratulations to Xavi Vierge who rode incredibly and we are really happy, so thanks to him.”