Moto2: Annus horribilis continues for Lowes in Sepang

Sam Lowes’ annus horribilis has continued at the Malaysian Grand Prix, as the pre-season title contender once again failed to score points at the Sepang circuit after crashing out of Sunday’s race.

The race marks Lowes’ seventh non-score in the last nine races of the championship, ending a season that started with him locked in battle for the crown with Johann Zarco and Alex Rins and now looks set to end with him slipping to fifth in the championship.

And speaking after the race on Sunday, it’s clear now that Lowes’ move to the MotoGP championship in 2017 with the Gresini Aprilia squad can’t come soon enough for him.

“I started the race slowly to avoid risks, but suddenly crashed and I don’t know why. After two disappointing races we wanted to redeem us here in Malaysia, but conditions have certainly not helped us during the weekend. I’m very sorry.”

His sentiments were echoed by team boss Fausto Gresini, whom he’ll remain with for next season and his promotion to the premiere class.

“In this flyaway trip unfortunately we didn’t collect any points: we need to change gear, make fewer mistakes and stay focused to return to bring home the result. Today we faced difficult conditions again, but the situation was the same for everybody. Congratulations to Zarco for the winning the Championship, he deserved it.”