MotoGP 2016: Crutchlow Grabs Stunning Maiden Victory At Brno GP

It was an awe-striking moment at the Brno Grand Prix today as Cal Crutchlow scored his maiden victory in MotoGP, while also becoming the first British rider to take the pole position after 35 years.

By Sameer Contractor

1 mins read

Published on August 22, 2016

Highlights

This is Cal Crutchlow's first victory in MotoGP
He is also the first British rider to take the pole after 35 years
Crutchlow's unconventional choice of tyres helped him seal the win

It was an awe-striking moment at the Brno Grand Prix today as Cal Crutchlow scored his maiden victory in MotoGP, while also becoming the first British rider to take the pole position after 35 years. The CWM LCR Honda rider showcased an inspiring choice of tyres in the rain-soaked track, which allowed him to surge at the top ahead of champions Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez. The Brno GP was drenched in rains before the start of the race, which in turn ensured that all teams started on wet rubber. However, Crutchlow, who started tenth on the grid, opted for hard tyres at the front and rear, which turned out to be a game changer for the 30-year-old rider. The move helped the Brit beat Rossi with a lead of over 7 seconds, while Marquez had to settle for the third place. Czech GP Winners Yamaha rider Jorge Lorenzo had the best start at the beginning of the race, but it was Ducati's Andrea Iannone who was quick to take the lead at turn 1. Iannone's lead though was short lived as Marquez zoomed past to take the first place. The wet conditions turned disastrous for Lorenzo as he struggled to keep up in the opening lap finishing at 10th, while Rossi was doing no well at the 12th position. Further in the race, Lorenzo's switch to slick tyres turned out to be another failed move as a light shower meant the Spanish rider had to pit again for tyre change costing him time and eventually finishing 7th. Things are now looking up Valentino Rossi, post the Brno GP as the nine-time world champion closes the gap on Marquez in championship standings. The Honda rider is currently leading the riders' championship with 197 points followed by Rossi with 144 points, while Jorge Lorenzo trails at third with 138 points. Crutchlow, on the other hand, will be heading for the Silverstone GP as a winner, much to the respite of his home fans.