After the conclusion of the MotoGP pre-season tests in 2024, it seems that Yamaha has still not made significant progress with their M1 motorcycle, much to the disappointment of star rider Fabio Quartararo. This lack of improvement may have jeopardized Yamaha’s chances of keeping Quartararo beyond 2025. However, recent changes within the team have helped Quartararo align with the long-term vision. Although Quartararo’s 14th place in the Lusail test may not accurately reflect his true speed, it highlights the ongoing issues he faces with the upgraded machine. Specifically, the bike still struggles with rear grip in time attack mode.
Quartararo now echoes the concerns of Yamaha’s MotoGP veterans, including Andrea Dovizioso, Cal Crutchlow, Valentino Rossi, Maverick Vinales, and Jorge Lorenzo. They all attribute their difficulties to the same root cause: a lack of rear grip. This problem hampers their ability to take advantage of the new soft tires during qualifying, resulting in poor grid positions similar to those experienced in 2023. Quartararo emphasized the need for improvement in rear grip and turning ability, highlighting the stark contrast between Yamaha and their competitors, such as factory Ducati rider Enea Bastianini.
Despite the challenging competitive landscape, there has been a noticeable shift within the team in recent months. This shift can be attributed to the arrival of Max Bartolini, former Ducati vehicle engineer now serving as the European project leader for Yamaha’s MotoGP team. Bartolini’s hiring is part of Yamaha’s broader strategy to incorporate European engineering knowledge and talent from both their rivals and the automotive industry. Team managing director Lin Jarvis explained that Bartolini’s arrival is the result of a process that began in 2022 with collaborations with Marmotors and Dallara, followed by the hiring of Marco Nicotra in October 2023.
Although Bartolini only started working on January 9th, he has already made a big impression on Quartararo. The world champion praised the massive changes that have been implemented since the Sepang test and expressed admiration for Bartolini’s working style. Despite the lack of immediate results, Quartararo remains motivated and believes that it takes time for Bartolini to fully understand the bike and make improvements. He recognizes that the team still has a long way to go but has confidence in the project and Yamaha’s commitment to improvement.
As the MotoGP 2025 rider market approaches, Quartararo’s exceptional talent is likely to attract the interest of rival teams if Yamaha does not provide him with a competitive bike. Quartararo has previously expressed his willingness to explore other opportunities if Yamaha does not improve. However, he is willing to wait and see what Yamaha and Bartolini can achieve. Quartararo believes that more time and testing are needed to witness the bike’s improvement. He remains optimistic about the project and trusts that Yamaha is doing their best to enhance the bike’s performance.
© 2024
Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo made history once again in yesterday’s match against the opposing team. The player scored three goals and provided an assist, contributing to his team’s overwhelming 5-0 victory. With this impressive performance, Ronaldo became the club’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing the previous record of 200 goals.
The fans of the superstar could not be prouder of his achievement. Messages of congratulations and admiration continue to pour in on social media. Ronaldo is considered one of the greatest players of all time, and his skill on the field is undeniable. Furthermore, his dedication to training and his winning mentality serve as inspiration for many young athletes.
However, not everything is rosy in Cristiano Ronaldo’s life. Recently, rumors have surfaced that the player is unhappy with his current club and is considering a transfer to another team. These rumors have left fans worried and anxious about the future of the superstar.
Despite the speculations, Ronaldo stated in a press conference that he is focused on his current club and intends to continue giving his best on the field. He emphasized the importance of staying focused and not letting himself be distracted by rumors and media pressure.
With the end of the season approaching, football fans eagerly await to see what the next chapter in Cristiano Ronaldo’s career will be. Will he stay at his current club or seek new challenges? Only time will tell. In the meantime, fans will continue to support and admire the talent of this true sports icon.
