MotoGP news

De Puniet expects hard race at Laguna Seca

Kawasaki rider Randy De Puniet described his race at Laguna Seca last year, his first ever at the circuit, as the hardest of his life as a blistering heat wave affected riders and track alike. It was so hot the recently laid track surface started to melt and the AMA support races were postponed. However, the Frenchman managed twelfth place, despite the sweltering conditions, and hopes to build on that experience this weekend.

"I'm feeling good for this weekend," said De Puniet. "I think it will be a hard race, though. Last year, it was difficult for me at Laguna: this track is like the Sachsenring in that it's short and tight and the Corkscrew is an especially difficult corner. I need to improve at that section this weekend, because I wasn't so fast there last year, but the bike and Bridgestone tyres should perform well and I think I'll be able to get a good result.

"It's not going to be as hot as in 2006, which will be better for the engine, for the tyres and for me! I like being in America, so I'm happy to be at Laguna, and I'm feeling confident and upbeat."

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