Yamaha Tech 3's Johann Zarco now leads the rookie standings by a considerable margin after Silverstone, as closest challenger Jonas Folger – his teammate – was forced to sit the race out following a crash in Warm Up.

Zarco also retains a healthy advantage over LCR Honda rider Cal Crutchlow – 20 points – in the fight to be top Independent Team rider in 2017.

"Now it’s back on track at the very different venue of Misano, where the Frenchman has been on pole in Moto2 for the last two years and taken one win, in 2015.

Like with most racetracks, Zarco counts on a solid record – and will be even more optimistic as he gets ready to ride his Yamaha on the Adriatic, where the Japanese manufacturer are the most successful since racing returned there in 2007.

"I am excited to visit Misano because it’s an interesting circuit and after visiting Austria and Silverstone, it will be a small track for the MotoGP bikes." Said Zarco

"It is going to be very important to work effectively with the team in order to set the bike up and feel comfortable so that we can have a positive race on Sunday."

"For sure the GP weekend will not be easy, but I hope to be consistent from the beginning to the end. The circuit is one that I like and I have good memories from my days in Moto2 and the 125cc class."

"In addition, the weather can be quite hot and the venue is right next to the Adriatic Sea. So overall, I aim to have a rewarding time and finish inside the top five to get a lot of points for the championship."

source: motogp.com