MotoGP Argentina Grand Prix Friday practice pacesetter Andrea Dovizioso does not believe his current pace is “enough” for a podium challenge on Sunday.
Qatar race winner Dovizioso led Ducati stablemate Jack Miller on the Pramac GP19 by 0.009 seconds in a tight second practice at Termas de Rio Hondo.
Dovizioso, who has just one podium to his credit in Argentina, and Ducati have typically struggled at the Argentine venue, though the Italian admits the Desmosedici is working “better” than it did at this track last year – but is not convinced it is strong enough to fight for the podium.
“We are very close, so it's not too important the laptime,” Dovizioso told motogp.com.
“But it was very important to start with this confidence. The bike worked better than last year, this is what we need, and I'm really happy about that.
“It doesn't mean it's enough to fight for the podium, but the base is very good. We work in a good way, so I'm happy.
“I was relaxed this morning, this helps always with the work we have to do during the practice.
“We improve a little bit the set-up during the practice, I don't think it's enough because a lot of riders have a good pace.”
When asked where the bike has changed compared to its predecessor around the 2.99-mile Termas circuit, Dovizioso highlighted weight distribution as being “different” and a base set-up which is a “bit better” than what it was at this stage 12 months ago.
“Well, last year the weight distribution was different, and we didn't use the winglets,” he added.
“So a lot of differences from last year. I think our base is a bit better than at the beginning of the season last year.
“This is the reason why a lot of Ducatis are in the front, and that is very important because in these two races we have to be on the podium."
