Mir scores points despite Rossi contact
Joan Mir feels top ten finish was possible without time lost during tangle with Valentino Rossi at the Italian MotoGP.
Sunday's Italian MotoGP saw rookie Joan Mir score his first points since the Qatar season opener, despite contact with Valentino Rossi.
Rossi and Mir began the race just 20th and 18th respectively, their paths crossing when the home hero clipped the Suzuki rider as they fought over 14th place on lap 5 (pictured).
The incident sent them both to the back of the field, but Mir overtook the likes of Andrea Iannone, Johann Zarco and finally Repsol Honda's Jorge Lorenzo to eventually claim twelfth place.
"I’m glad to pick up some points today, even if it wasn’t in the position that I wanted or that I felt I could achieve with my potential this weekend," Mir said.
"The touch between Valentino and I cost me around seven seconds, and that’s what prevented me from getting a top ten finish.
"Anyway, I want to thank the team for all the great work done this weekend, I feel good and I know the results will come."
Mir's Mugello points mean he has now moved ahead of Francesco Bagnaia (Pramac Ducati) for second behind Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha) in the rookie of the year standings.
gg793269.jpg
