Albert Arenas (2nd): “I’m annoyed because I didn’t win!”

World Championship leader Albert Arenas racked up points at the Supersport event at Donington Park. Although he came off second best against local hero Tom Booth-Amos (Triumph) in both races, the Spaniard could be satisfied with two second-place finishes.

What was the secret behind Booth-Amos and Triumph’s unbeatable performance at Donington this weekend? “First of all, he rode very well. But he was so fast – from my point of view, he didn’t have to think too much about accelerating out of the corners. He just opened the throttle and off he went,” explained the Yamaha rider. “I myself had to struggle to find grip and the right revs to make any headway. I’d say that was the main reason.”

Does this vary from track to track, or was Donington simply a very good track for the Triumph? “That could be the case. He also finished second here twice in a row last year,” noted Arenas. “I hadn’t felt very comfortable with my set-up since Friday. I was lacking a bit of grip, so we couldn’t make the most of it under acceleration. But things went better on Sunday. We made a small change to the gearbox – to get the acceleration just right. I had more grip and was a bit stronger. For a few moments I managed to leave Tom behind, but then, after the incident with Can, I lost the chance to draft behind Tom. I lost ground and tried to catch him up again, but it wasn’t enough.”

As a reminder: with five laps to go, Yamaha team-mate Can Öncü overtook Arenas with a hard manoeuvre at the Melbourne hairpin, forcing him wide. But Arenas countered immediately and reclaimed second place.

Nevertheless, Arenas came across as cool and composed throughout the race. “I just always try to think about what’s needed in each situation. I’m very focused. Of course, there are some things you can’t control. But yes, I’m at one with the bike,” said the veteran rider.

Professional collaboration with the AS Racing Team

The AS Racing Team values Albert Arenas’ professional approach. For his part, the 2020 Moto3 World Champion feels very much at home with the team. “I’ve found a crew that’s very professional. And not just in terms of how they work, but also in how they approach the weekend,” enthused the 29-year-old. “I feel at ease and don’t have to think about it too much. They’re strong and focused, and they’re constantly working – no matter how late it is. I do the same, so we’re a great fit. I’m happy that I can capitalise on the professional attitude I have. Because sometimes you give it your all, but it just doesn’t click – then it’s a waste of time and you can’t deliver.”

In the World Championship standings, the Yamaha rider has extended his lead to 82 points. How important is it for Arenas to head into the summer break feeling confident and with a comfortable lead? “I don’t care about that. But it’s good,” the championship leader shrugged. “I’m focused on preparing for Magny-Cours. I’m annoyed because I didn’t win (at Donington, ed.). We’re trying to improve.”