2014 Argentina Moto2 Preview
The biggest news for American Moto2 fans as the series heads to Argentina concerns the only US competitor, Josh Herrin.
The 23-year-old American will miss Argentina Moto2 due to breaking his collarbone in a Supermoto-training accident in his home state of Georgia. For additional information, click here.
Heading to the new Termas de Rio Hondo circuit in Argentina, Moto2 is the only World Championship class that can boast different winners from the first two races. With a new venue, the chances of a third different winner in three rounds is very possible.
The intermediate class has certainly attracted variety so far in 2014. In Qatar and Texas, five different riders from a possible six could be seen on the podium. Tito Rabat was the only one to stand up there at both events, confirming his position as a real championship favorite, however new victor and 19-year-old Maverick Viñales has made a real impression as he won his first Moto2 race earlier than any other rookie had ever done in the class.
The Moto3 World Champion would appear to have given himself a wonderful opportunity to emulate Marc Marquez and jump up to the premier class at the age of just 20. It’s still early days, but the Pons HP 40 rider will certainly be looking to confirm that Texas was not just a flash in the pan.
As for Marc VDS Racing Team’s Rabat, he may have struggled initially in Texas qualifying but this was due to gearbox problems; after they had been solved, he immediately set pole position and went on to finish second, with Mika Kallio now hoping to beat his team-mate for the first time this year.
Others arguably have some ground to make up, such as Interwetten Paddock Moto2’s Tom Luthi and NGM Forward Racing’s Simone Corsi who are likely to put the emphasis on qualifying. Mapfre Aspar Team Moto2 are also desperate for a strong result at the new Termas de Rio Hondo circuit, with Terol having not scored points yet. Others were far happier in Texas, with the likes of Anthony West (QMMF Racing Team) and Tech 3 pairing Marcel Schrotter and Ricky Cardus all having achieved top ten finishes at Round 2.
So, what are the chances of a new winner for Moto2 in 2014? Judging by recent history, it looks good. The last time MotoGP visited a new venue was Texas in 2013, when Terol clinched his first victory in the class.