Scot McPhee wins Le Mans Moto3 GP 19 | 05 | 2019

    SCOT JOHN McPHEE delivered a sensational performance to win the second Moto3 Grand Prix of his career. And the 24-year-old from Oban immediately dedicated the Le Mans victory to his mum, Maggie: “Happy birthday mum; that win’s for you.” (Related: McPhee bags podium in Moto3 season finale)

    McPhee, who became the first Brit to win a motorcycle grand prix for 54 years when he took victory in the Czech rain at Brno in 2016, was in dazzling form over the Le Mans weekend in France. (Related: McPhee's racing steps to success)

    In only his fifth race for his new Petronas Sprinta Racing team, the Scot not only delivered the Malaysian outfit its first ever Moto3 pole position, but 24 hours later muscled his 250cc Honda to the team’s maiden victory victory in dramatic fashion. (Related: John McPhee wins Czech Moto3 GP)

    Leading across the start-finish line to begin the final lap, McPhee — whose best result in the opening four grands prix this year was 12th — slipped to second at Turn 1. But with just six corners remaining of the tight French circuit, the Scot darted down the inside of Lorenzo Dalla Porta’s Honda to retake the lead.

    John-Race-Podium.jpg

    Hounded by the Italian to the chequered flag, McPhee crossed the line 0.106secs ahead, with the KTM of championship leader, Spain’s Aron Canet third, 0.757s behind the Scot. (Related: McPhee bags second Moto3 podium)

    “That was an awesome ride,” McPhee, who punched the air a split-second after crossing the line, said afterwards. “Happy birthday mum: that one’s for you.

    “I’m so, so happy for the team. It’s been one of those starts to the year where it sounds like I’ve been making excuses, because I’ve had to keep on believing in myself. I knew I was fast, and the team’s been fantastic. It’s just been a matter of time before we turned it round.

    John-Action-1.jpg

    “We came into qualifying and got pole on Saturday. And now to win gets all the monkeys off my back. At the moment it still doesn’t feel quite real, to have won my first race in the dry. I’m feeling pretty emotional; but I’m certainly delighted.

    “It’s good we’ve taken this good result that takes us into the top 10 of the World Championship, but there is still a long way to go. Things are very even in this series and each rider pushes 100%. There have been 10 different winners in the last 10 races, which shows Moto3 is a tough class.

    John-Action-2.jpg

    “I’ve never doubted myself. That’s a fact. I’ve definitely felt down at times this season, especially after races where I’ve felt I’ve been going out ready to deliver a result or a podium and it’s never happened.

    “But every weekend since the start of the season I’ve led at least one session. I’ve been quick. It’s just been the races which have been letting me down.

    “That’s been frustrating, because I know if I’m one thing is I’m a racer. To be able to show today what we’re capable of confirms we’re genuine and serious contenders for the championship. It’s fantastic.”

    Related: Scot Rory Skinner wins British Talent Cup

    Keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us on twitter.com/Scotcars

    Jim McGill

     

User Comments

Login or register to post comments.