ELIAS LOOKING FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE PODIUM IN MOTEGI GUINTOLI READY FOR JAPANESE CHALLENGE The Alice Team riders, Toni Elias and Sylvain Guintoli, are ready to race in Japan where last year they battled together to conquered the podium. In fact, in the last edition of the Japanese Grand Prix held last September, the Spanish rider has beaten by only half a second his future will be teammate concluding in third position. United this year in the Alice Team, the duo will try all possible to repeat, if not improved, the result conquered last season. The Japanese track is really much appreciated by Elias where he always managed to perform well: in addition to last year podium he has, in fact, concluded sixth in 2006, ninth in 2005 and second in his last 250cc season. Fabiano Sterlacchini — Alice Team Technical Director, is trustful for this new challenge: “Also in Indianapolis, when the track was dry, we made it to always be between the fastest riders and I sincerely think we can do the same also in Motegi. This is a really nice track that adapt quite good to tour bike technical characteristics. On the two long straights our riders will be able to use in the best way the power of our Ducati Desmosedici GP8 Sat. Toni made it to conquer two podiums and I believe he could conquer another one soon. I also hope that Sylvain will make it to show his qualities and step on the podium before the end of the season.” Alice Team Spanish rider Toni Elias can’t wait to step back on a track which saw him conquer the podium last year: “Last year it was a really interesting and fun race. To repeat the podium it would be fantastic. It is a fascinating track where the speed of our bike could really help us, but nowadays the Ducati is a bike that can do well in any circuit. I feel physically and psychologically very well prepared. I only hope that the weather will be on our side this time and that the sun will shine for the all Japanese racing weekend.” Sylvain Guintoli will try to defeat his teammate after last year finish just half second behind Elias that took him off the podium: “Yes, last year I got beaten on the finish line for nothing. This year I hope to be able to beat him on the finish line as well but I would love to see us both on he podium at the end of the race. It seems impossible if we see this year results, but I know I can do it. Unfortunately in the races I never been really lucky, but during the last Grand Prixs free sessions I have constantly been with the fastest. I am sure to be able to provide for my Team a good performance in Japan.”