Maverick Vinales appears to have a subscription to third place in qualifying in Qatar. If you remember what happened in the race a week ago, it’s not a bad starting point for the Spanish driver. But the Q2 was no walk in the park for him. After a first attempt, he returned to the pits shaking his head and seemed to collapse.
“The situation in the garage has changed. There is more trust and loyalty, ”he emphasized. “The first attempt didn’t go well and I wanted to make it clear to my team so that they wouldn’t touch anything. I stayed calm. It will serve as a lesson when I have tougher times. I went back and pushed hard.”
It went well.
“It wasn’t easy to get into the front row, but then I had a good lap and thought it would be enough for pole, so hats off to Martin and Zarco. Especially Johann, who has been working well these days. He’s got a good pace, just like Quartararo and Mir. “
What have you been working on in practice?
“Only with small things. In RP4 the wind was very strong and I think if it decreases tomorrow I can be faster in the third section. I feel good on the bike and that’s the most important thing. “
What do you expect from Martin in the race?
“He’s really talented. We already argued a bit last Sunday. I think he will be a tough rival in the future.”
Will the Ducatis always have an advantage at the start?
“Yamaha is working on the system that lowers the front of the bike. You will get it asap. Losail is a unique route. We can overtake in corners, but this is not possible on other tracks and the start is more important. I hope to be the best at the beginning … after the Ducatis, ”he said with a laugh.
What do you expect for the race?
“The pace seems clear to me, but then anything can happen. My plan is to push from the first lap, set a fast pace and manage the tires. Let’s see if I can be faster than last Sunday.”