Mahindra's Locatelli delivers two podium finishes in Moto3

Mahindra Racing team’s Andrea Locatelli delivered two podium finishes by winning the first race and coming third in the next in the second round of the CIV Moto3 series over the weekend. Locatelli’s teammate Michael Rinaldi finished eighth in the first race and sixth in the second outing as Mahindra Racing enjoyed a successful weekend. Commenting on his performance, Locatelli said: “Both races were intense and hard fought. In the first race, I gave everything I had on the first lap and got a little margin that proved to be enough for the win.” [caption id=“attachment_690809” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  Andrea Locatelli delivered two podium finishes by winning the first race and coming third in the next.[/caption] “The second race was much more difficult compared to the first. There were 10 riders battling for the win and it was a brawl for all 13 laps. Weather conditions were different, so we had to adjust the set-up a bit.” “The team did a fantastic job on it. I got on the podium again and I know this is very important for the team and me. I leave Mugello with first place in the standings, knowing that I can challenge for the title,” he added. Rinaldi said: “As Locatelli’s performance demonstrated, the bike has great potential. I would like to thank the team for the outstanding job they have done. As far as my bike is concerned, we sorted out the issues that limited our performance Saturday. “I got a very good start and battled at the front. Unfortunately, towards the end of the race, I lost some ground from the leading pack. I’m happy though, because in the second race, we were much faster than the first. “These two races have been a sort of test for me, really, and we’ve managed to improve. I’m confident for the next races and want to challenge for the win.” The next CIV Moto3 round will take place at Vallelunga, about 32 kms north of Rome, from May 24 to 26.