Elías did not enjoy the smoothest of final preparations for the start of the campaign as an injury picked up during pre-season testing meant he arrived in Qatar for Round 1 not fully fit. A courageous ride to fourth position – from pole – was testament to his determination and back to back wins at Jerez and Le Mans followed.
“It had been a long time without winning a race (since Portugal 2006 in MotoGP), and having that feeling again was perfect,” said Elías of his first of seven wins of the season.
“It was even more incredible because it was in front of Spanish fans at Jerez, where the atmosphere is incredible.”
“It was even more incredible because it was in front of Spanish fans at Jerez, where the atmosphere is incredible.”
Discussing the moment he realised the Championship could be there for the taking after winning at Sachsenring in Round 8, Elías said: “Germany was perfect because we suffered a lot and in only two or three practices we changed the situation 100% and were able to win that race. It was a very important race but also the first day we thought: ‘This Championship could be for us’.”
Elías’ reward is a return to the premier class and he will ride with LCR Honda in 2011, having already conducted his first Official Test in Valencia immediately after the last race of the season.
“I knew I needed to win the Championship if I wanted to get back into MotoGP, and now we will be. I’m delighted that Lucio (Cecchinello, LCR Honda Team Manager), has given me this opportunity. It could be great and I’m very confident.”
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