The day started with Free Practice 3, where the GYTR GRT Yamaha riders clocked more laps on their Yamaha R1 machines and improved on their learning process at Donington Park. Even though the track had still wet patches, Gardner was able to build confidence to finish 11th (1’29.568) with his teammate Aegerter just behind in 12th (1’29.719).
Afterwards, both gave it their all for a good grid position in the Tissot Superpole qualifier. The #77 rider eventually qualified in sixth (1’26.502) with a stunning final lap, while unfortunately the #87 couldn’t fully express his potential and had to start from 18th (1’27.608).
In Race 1, Aegerter dropped a couple of positions at the start, while Gardner impressed with a rocket getaway to gain five places in the opening lap. Then, in the 23-lap contest, the GYTR GRT Yamaha pair showed consistent pace to score valuable points. Indeed, the Australian rider recovered to P10 in the latter stages, while unfortunately bad luck forced his Swiss teammate to move from P9 to P12.
FULL RESULTS - WorldSBK - FREE PRACTICE 3