Pepe Oriola calls for better driving standards

Pepe Oriola managed to score a second place in Race 1 in Monza, Italy, but failed to finish in the second heat after a contact left him with a broken suspension.

“First of all I would like to ask (Gianni) Morbidelli to teach me how to go through Parabolica,” joked Oriola referring to the Italian’s claims he was quicker at Ascari and Parabolica. “I had a really good start in Race 1 and managed to be in the lead, but it is really hard in Monza because with the slipstream the rivals will take you back.”

The Craft-Bamboo Lukoil driver is under no illusion the situation will not be the same in Austria next weekend: “We knew the Hondas were going to be faster, just like in Shanghai, and Salzburgring is also a very fast track, so the goal will be not to lose too many points and then go from there. I retired in the second race because I was touched by someone and broke the suspension, so I lost some points, and that’s not good for the championship.”

Speaking of his title chances, Oriola called for better driving standards after scoring his third DNF of the season in Monza: “I already have three zeros, so rather than winning you just have to stay on track, but there is a lot of rubbing and touching and it is not easy to get through a race.

I know the fans enjoy that, but we also have responsibilities, sponsors and safety issues, we are fighting for the championship, so maybe the stewards should take some actions to calm everyone down a little, otherwise it is going to be a problem in the future.”

Pepe Oriola is now third in the championship, 21 points shy of Morbidelli, whose win is awaiting confirmation after having made contact with Target Competition’s Stefano Comini.