Maverick Vinales had high hopes for this Japanese Grand Prix. Unfortunately, all his efforts were for nothing on this Saturday in Motegi. However, his qualifications allowed him to dream, in addition to being perfectly in line with his words yesterday. He who thought he could take the bike to the top finished third: a front row on a circuit that doesn’t suit the Aprilia, it has to be done. But, during the race, yet another technical problem coupled with a lack of pace undermined his ambitions.
“Top Gun” was not the happiest at the end of this second day on the Twin Ring Motegi. « At the start of the race, the ride height device did not deactivate. I went through the first three corners with the bike reared up every time I opened the throttle, which cost me a lot of time. Afterwards, I didn’t have the pace to keep up with the best. I am very happy with this qualifying session, and then, for the race, I gave 100%. When I’m alone I can do good tricks, but it’s more difficult in a group.” he said to GPOne microphones.
Photo : Michelin Motorsport
In addition to a new technical problem – which is a lot, on the scale of a season – Maverick had to battle with the overpowering Ducatis, who monopolized the top 7 at the finish. « NWe are not fast enough to get close to the Ducatis and try to overtake them, they are impregnable in a straight line. I have a lot of problems when entering corners, I have to put a lot of pressure on the front. We can delay braking, but we must maintain speed when going through curves, so it’s difficult to overtake. » he added, in an interesting explanation.
Photo : Michelin Motorsport
For tomorrow, the Spaniard is not worried. As usual, he does not hesitate to express his confidence, regardless of what Mother Nature decides. « I am calm and motivated. Open to all possible weather conditions, and focused on the best result. I will have to try to follow the best » he concluded.
Do you think Maverick Vinales will be able to maintain his third position acquired in qualifying? Tell us in the comments!
Sprint result at the 2024 MotoGP Japanese Grand Prix:
Ranking credit: MotoGP.com
Cover photo: Michelin Motorsport
