After a strong performance in the previous round in Barcelona, Elliot approaches the third race of the season at the Aragon circuit, in the heart of Spain, with ambition.
On Thursday morning, the first practice session is disrupted: after just one lap, an unusual noise forces Elliot to stop on the side of the track as a precaution. A wise decision, as the diagnosis leads to a complete engine replacement.
Forced to continue the afternoon session with a different bike, Elliot remains confident for the rest of the weekend.
On Friday, thanks to his mechanic’s work overnight, the bike is ready. Elliot finds his rhythm again, improves his lap times, and focuses on race pace.
On Saturday, he has a solid qualifying session: 9th after the first run, then 8th with a softer rear tire that allows him to improve his time.
In the afternoon, due to the intense heat (38°C), race direction decides to shorten the race by 2 laps.
Elliot gets a great start and narrowly avoids a crash in the first corner. After a strong fight for 5th place, he tries a strategy in the final lap, but a small mistake costs him time. He finishes 6th.
On Sunday, it’s time for Race 2. This time, he gets a weaker start and an early battle with other riders holds him back. The lead group pulls away while he remains stuck behind two riders for six laps, unable to overtake.
Unfortunately, a small mistake makes him lose 5 seconds. Frustrated, he still manages to set his best lap towards the end of the race and finishes 9th — a frustrating race, with a sense of unfinished business.
Despite this, Elliot leaves Aragon having learned a lot: managing worn tires, improving lap times, and gaining more race experience.
Next round in three weeks at Navarra.
Stay tuned !!
