CAPIREX AND DE PUNIET READY FOR LAGUNA SECA After the Sachsenring grand prix, MotoGP returns to action in the United States at Laguna Seca, host to the tenth round of the world championship. The circuit, which in 2005 returned to the MotoGP calendar for the premier class only, is laid out in the California hills that surround Monterey. Laguna Seca is famous for its unique Corkscrew section, a narrow and spectacular left-right chicane on a steep descent. The whole track, with its many ups and downs, calls to mind a rollercoaster, with straightaways being both few and short. There are a number of fast corners, and it’s quite common for the bikes’ wheels to come off the ground. Loris Capirossi will be back aboard his Ducati Desmosedici. His shoulder is still painful, but the GP veteran is ready to once again compete for the Pramac Racing Team. Meanwhile, Randy De Puniet is looking for confirmation. After the modest progress made in Germany, the Frenchman returns to Laguna Seca two years after his last outing there (he missed the race last year due to an injury incurred at the Sachsenring). Fabiano Sterlacchini Pramac Racing Technical Director “It’s a crucial moment for Loris Capirossi. After three races as a spectator, he’ll be back in his bike’s saddle, though obviously not in perfect condition. Still, it seems that he has recovered enough to face this weekend with no problems. The fact remains that Laguna Seca is a very physical track, with many ascents and descents and a Corkscrew that’s quite difficult. It’s one of Randy De Puniet’s favorite circuits, and if he doesn’t have any problems, the Frenchman can get a good result.” Loris Capirossi – Pramac Racing Team rider “This time I’m really returning to the track. As I said before the Sachsenring weekend, the Desmosedici is mine, and seeing another rider on it bothered me a lot. I’m not in top form, but I’ve worked over the past few days to be in decent physical condition. The track is very tough, which isn’t ideal for my condition, but I’ll give 110% to be able to finish the race. I’m expecting a very challenging weekend.” Randy De Puniet – Pramac Racing Team rider “First, I must repeat the same results I had in practice and qualifying at the Sachsenring, and there’s also much work to be done regarding the race. I hope not to have the same problems as usual, although they’ve been improving lately. Laguna Seca is a very physical track, which could help me to get a good result. Last year, unfortunately, I skipped this round, so I’m very motivated for this weekend.”