Lowes, Fernandez expect to fight for Portimao victory after first 1-2 finish

Following their first 1-2 finish as Moto2 team-mates in Misano, Sam Lowes and Augusto Fernandez have victory on their mind heading to Portimao. 

Despite having a pre-race long-lap penalty handed to him, Fernandez came through from as low as 13th to claim second, while Lowes took victory from pole position - his first race win since completing a season opening double in Qatar.

While Lowes took victory last time out, the former MotoGP rider is focused on achieving the same result after losing a potential win at this year’s earlier Portimao race.

As was the case in Misano, Lowes started from pole at the Algarve circuit, however, a poor start relegated the Brit down to sixth heading towards turn one before he suffered a highside. 

"I’m very excited to be heading back to Portimao this weekend because I love the track," said Lowes. 

"We showed we had great potential there at the start of the year when I took pole position but unfortunately we couldn’t capitalise in the race. 

"Last year’s podium in Portugal and the win last time out in Misano means I go there with a lot of motivation and confidence. 

"I’m in a good moment and will be looking to challenge for the win again to finish the season with positive results."

While Fernandez is still without a win compared to the three of Lowes so far in 2021, the Spaniard has been in stunning form of late. 

Five podiums during the last eight races makes him a firm favorite to at least challenge for the podium once again this weekend, if not more. 

Fernandez added: "I’m really looking forward to returning to Portimao because when we raced there back in April, I didn’t have the same great feeling with the bike that I do now. 

"I still did a very good job a few months ago, so going back now with such a positive feeling on the bike makes me very optimistic. 

"I’m sure we can have a good weekend and end this season very strongly. The goal will be to challenge at the front and try to win."