Lorenzo: "I had to disconnect my brain"
Hardy Spaniard battles through pain to clinch podium position in season opener
INJURED Fiat Yamaha MotoGP man Jorge Lorenzohad said he had to 'disconnect' his brain and ride with his heart to snatch second place at yesterday's Qatar MotoGP
The Spaniard, riding with a hand injury sustained in a pre-season training crash, battled his way through the pack and onto the podium, after a poor start from the front row of the grid.
Lorenzo's team-mate Valentino Rossi secured victory in the 22-lap race, giving the Fiat Yamaha MotoGP squad a one-two win in the opening race of the season.
Speaking after the race, Lorenzo chirped:
"Today I had to disconnect my brain and just ride with my heart, and I am so happy about this second place.
"My hand was a bit sore but the bigger problem was the rear sliding, and early on with a full fuel tank I found it quite hard. My plan was to take it quietly and not risk too much, but after a while the adrenalin built up and I couldn't do that, I had to ride at the maximum! Once I had less fuel it was easier and I started to get closer, but I was on the limit physically and with the bike, so it was quite risky!
"I made some good overtakes at the end and this is a fantastic result for our team, with Valentino winning as well. Now we go to Motegi, where I won last year, and I will be in better physical condition by then and ready to be even stronger."
