MotoGP Austin: Lowes aiming to bounce back with ‘perfect’ COTA connection

Elf Marc VDS’ Sam Lowes endured a difficult weekend in Argentina but is hoping a return to Austin, Texas will reignite his Moto2 campaign.

Lowes has fond memories of the Circuit of the Americas having taken his first Moto2 victory there in 2015. A return to the rostrum, in second position, the following year reinforced the strong relationship, however technical issues cut short his race last season.

The 5.5km rollercoaster circuit has also been partially resurfaced since the championship’s visit last October, with the demanding 20 corner layout remaining a favourite of the 31-year-old.

Having already spent time court-side in Dallas, and obviously at the golf course, Lowes is refreshed and ready for this weekend’s 18-lap race which kicks off Sunday’s action thanks to a revised schedule.

“I’m really looking forward to riding at COTA,” Lowes said from the United States ahead of the action. “I’m obviously disappointed with the result in Termas but COTA is the perfect place for me to try and get myself back at the front.

“I took my first win in Moto2 there and I’ve always had a great connection with the track and the American fans and it’s always a place I love to be at.

“COTA is a fantastic track and I’ve always enjoyed riding there and I’m curious to see what the new surface is like and whether the bumps are a bit better than last year.

“The main objective this weekend is to be back fighting at the front. The important thing at the end of a challenging weekend in Argentina was to score points and we need to keep that run going in Austin but just be much closer to the front and challenging for the podium.”