Gardner vows to 'keep fighting' in return to Red Bull Ring

Remy Gardner says he is ready to make amends when Moto2™ racing returns to the Red Bull Ring this weekend after the Aussie failed to convert pole position into points at the Austrian GP on Sunday.

ONEXOX TKKR SAG Team rider Gardner had great pace throughout the first of two consecutive rounds in Spielberg, sensationally taking pole with a Moto2™ record-breaking lap time of 1:28.681 – just 0.036 seconds ahead of Jorge Martin.

Gardner was in the mix during the early stages of the race before a horror incident with four riders caused a red flag.

Following the restart, Gardner stayed in podium contention but came undone as he crashed out unhurt at Turn 1 – ending the 22-year-old’s hopes of a dream finish to the weekend.

“The feeling with the bike was good and even though I was still struggling a little with straight-line speed, I was confident that we could produce a good result,” Gardner said.

“Quali was almost perfect, I showed I have big balls when it matters and was able to get the lap done.

“I got a little bit of slipstream in Sectors 1 and 2 and managed to keep it flowing in the final part of the lap.

“I was super happy and couldn’t wait to race. I was pushing very hard, struggling with the speed in first and second sector.

“I was trying too hard to make up the time on the brakes and unfortunately I ended up crashing. A big mistake, very costly for the championship, but we just have to keep fighting.

“We showed yesterday that we have the speed, we now just need a little luck. I’m glad that all those involved in the incident are OK.

“Looking forward and not backwards. Thanks once again to all those sending positive messages on social media. Means a lot!”

The Moto2™ race was won by Martin (Red Bull KTM Ajo), followed by Luca Marini (SKY Racing Team VR46) and Marcel Schrotter (Liqui Moly Intact GP).

Gardner’s teammate, Kasma Daniel, finished in 23rd place.

Moto2™ returns to the Red Bull Ring this weekend for the Styrian GP on 21-23 August.