Inde GasGas Aspar’s Jake Dixon was half a tenth from the Moto2 front row after a successful qualifying at Sepang International Circuit.

A 2:06.701 lap, set on his third of six on Saturday afternoon, left the British rider heading the second row having demonstrated strong pace across the Malaysian practice. It’s pace he’s hoping to convert in the continued hunt for his maiden Moto2 win during Sunday’s 18-lap race.

“We have made a good step forward today,” Dixon confirmed from the Sepang paddock. “We found what we were looking for in the third free practice. We made small changes for qualifying and I got a really good lap in.

“Then, on the second lap, another rider held me and I lost a lot of time. I think if it hadn’t happened, I would have started from the front row.

“Tomorrow is the most important day and I’m very motivated for the race.”