Jake Dixon put in a stand-out performance as the Qatar Moto2 test drew to a close finishing fourth on Sunday, and fifth overall, despite restrictions from his injured wrist.
Returning to action after having his 2020 season cut short by a near career-ending crash, the official test marked the first time that Dixon was able to ride his Moto2 machine, and despite added constraints over engine-usage, the limitations seemed far from curtailing his potential.
High winds caused further disruption to the final day’s action, blowing sand across the Losail International Circuit but the Petronas rider continued to work on both his mobility and bike settings with consistent improvements.
Using the test primarily to get his rhythm back and ensure he’s in the best shape for the first race of the year, the 25-year-old was able to complete 75 laps of the desert layout, setting his fastest ever time around Losail - a 1’58.837 - on his second to last lap of the three-day-test.
The effort left him fourth in the standings at the close of play, just 0.182s shy of fellow Brit Sam Lowes’ leading time, with teammate Xavi Vierge narrowly edging him out in the overall roster by a mere 0.005s thanks to Saturday’s performance.
“It’s been a great test and just being back on the bike was the main thing for me,” Dixon commented from trackside in Doha. “I’m really enjoying riding and I just need to say a massive thank you to everyone involved who has got me back. It’s so good to be back with the team - they’re amazing, the bike’s amazing and I can’t wait to get started with race week now.
“I’ve just been trying to use these test days as rehab on the bike and get my wrist moving again. I’m riding in a different way at the moment as well but we’re getting there. I’m really enjoying every lap and I’ve already achieved far more than I thought I would here.
"I don’t want to do anything silly, I’m listening to my wrist but it’s great to keep chipping away and make the improvements that we have been doing - even setting my best time around here. It shows how great the bike is and what work the team have done. Now I just want to make sure that I’m ready for the first race weekend of the year.
“I can’t wait to do more laps next weekend. I’m just hungry to keep going, keep building and enjoy the Qatar race.”
Petronas team boss Johan Stigefelt seemed just as positive with Dixon’s performance, adding “It’s been a hard winter for Jake with five months off the bike due to the injury from last year, but straight away he was up to speed. It was very impressive to see because it’s not easy to come back, especially after an injury, so it’s very nice to see. He now has a couple of days to rest up before Friday, so I’m pleased with him.
“The test has gone well and we look really strong, which is what we were expecting really. In terms of experience from last year we know we have a better pace now for sure. I’m very happy with both riders’ performance, so now that we’re ready, we look forward to starting the season next week.”
