After a podium in Portimao, it’s back north to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya as the JTT looks for more frontrunning form
The Autodromo Internacional do Algarve saw the Junior Talent Team back on the podium thanks to a stunning near-win for Tatchakorn Buasri in Race 1, and now it’s time for the team to saddle up for Round 5 in Barcelona. The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is another classic and the team is ready for another fight for the rostrum.
After a tougher season so far than expected, the podium in Portugal – just pipped at the line – saw Buasri back on top form and he’ll want to keep that going in Barcelona. Last year he scored points but the goal is higher in 2023, and the Thai rider arrives full of confidence after that second place and then a sixth and more solid points in Race 2 last time out.
Eddie O’Shea also had good speed in Portugal, and after a crash out the front group in Race 1 managed to bounce back and pip Buasri to a place in the top five in Race 2. That’s his best finish yet this season, and after having been the lead JTT rider for much of 2023 so far, the Brit will want to keep that moniker in Barcelona.
Portimao saw Danial Shahril rewarded with a point in Race 1 and then a top ten in Race 2, making it four races in a row in which he’s scored. There are two more chances to extend that streak in Barcelona, and to get back into the top ten again. Arbi Aditama, meanwhile, had a tougher Algarve round and is looking for some more consistency. He’s been in that top ten already too and will want more of that, but the Indonesian also wants to start stringing together some consistent finishes as the final half of the season gets in gear and he continues to learn the ropes.
There are two more races for the JuniorGP™ field at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, so make sure to tune in this weekend! Race 1 gets underway at 11:00 (GMT +2) on Sunday, before Race 2 at 14:00.
