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Second-Tier V8 Races Too Short: Stoner

27 Jul 2013
Two-time MotoGP world champion Casey Stoner has complained about the length of races in the V8 Supercars second tier category after placing 17th.
2 mins by James Pavey
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Usually Casey Stoner has no problem with speed but it seems V8 Supercars' second-tier races are over way too quickly for the two-time MotoGP world champion's liking.

Stoner was left lamenting the series' 14-lap race format at the Coates Hire Ipswich 360 on Saturday after finishing 17th when his rotten luck returned.

He was impressive in practice and qualified seventh for the opening race of the weekend but again found himself at the back of the field by the second lap after being spun around by Geoff Emery.

Even before the race started Stoner complained about the "ridiculously short" races.

And his opinion had not changed after his finish ensured he would start 17th on the grid for Sunday's second 14-lap race at Queensland Raceway.

"It's no secret we've been plagued by bad luck all year and I think what's most disappointing is that the weekend format doesn't allow for recovery," Stoner said.

"We had great speed and with the pace we had, a podium position was a big possibility.

"But to be turned around... in such short races it ends up costing you for the rest of the weekend.

"We don't get to qualify again."

Stoner always faced a steep learning curve after his surprise switch from two to four wheels this year.

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But he admitted the bad luck that had relegated him to back-of-the-field bun fights in short races had stunted his education.

The series started with 23-lap races in Adelaide and 18 in Perth before the 14-lap format started at the last round in Townsville.

"Last year the last race here was 22 laps and now we're down to 14. It's just not enough time for all the drivers to show their potential and that's what this category is all about and it's why everyone is in such a rush," Stoner said.

"We were quick and I think we could have gone faster again but we needed to preserve our tyres for Sunday.

"We're improving but racing is about results. I'm going to have to drive my arse off tomorrow."

Stoner has been a big hit with V8 Supercars fans but he may have lost one after earning the ire of rival Kristian Lindbom, who failed to finish following early contact between the pair.

"I am really disappointed with Casey. He drove into me for no reason," Lindbom said.

"I was a big fan of his. He is a two-time world champion and has more experience than me but in my eyes that was not on.

"I might have to have a few words with him."

Two 14-lap races conclude the Coates Hire Ipswich 360 on Sunday. Click here for full results from today's race.

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