Fabio Quartararo had to spend a large part of Friday catching up at the Red Bull Ring. On a day marked by bad weather, the Frenchman had to be content for the sixth time, a full second behind Zarco’s Ducati. Austria is certainly not El Diablo’s favorite track and he does not hide this and clearly admits Ducati’s superiority.
“This morning I made some changes to the M1, but it was difficult to have the right stability and grip with the soft tire that the medium offers – he analyzed – When it is wet, the situation becomes more complicated, especially in the straights up to the entrance to the bend. I have no confidence we are working to find it as it is complicated. In fact, I’m looking for something that will make me more competitive with the electronics to avoid the tire from wearing out too quickly.
Fabio is aware that there are many difficulties to be solved …
“Today I wanted to avoid mistakes, actually I didn’t take any chances when the track dried out. If this situation occurs again in the race, I’ll definitely take it because the race is a different matter. Unfortunately for me it is a disadvantage to have two races in a row in Austria. All other Ducatis have improved and none of the riders have my data to compare ”.
Fabio then went on to talk about Ducati …
“We need to look at last week’s data. I drove a good flying lap back then and had good pace in the race. The problem now will be to fill the gap with Ducati.
As if that weren’t enough, he’s now alone in the garage, a topic that he has downplayed …
“The absence of Vinales is not a problem as I want to concentrate on myself. Besides, we don’t have a lot to develop over the course of the year. And if I know what needs to be done to develop the bike. When asked by Maverick, however, ask Yamaha, they know more than me ”.
Quartararo has to contest a defensive race in Austria …
“Compared to before, I now have more experience and try to manage things better. Last year I was stressed when I thought about the World Championship, but now I think race after race and everything is going well. “