Yamaha’s MotoGP Challenges at Phillip Island: Sprint Struggles Highlight Need for Satellite Team Support

Concerns at Yamaha's MotoGP Sprint in Australia Signal Upcoming Support for Satellite Teams

Limited practice and data collection at Phillip Island hinder Yamaha's sprint performance.

Yamaha faced challenges in Saturday's sprint at the 2024 MotoGP Australian Grand Prix due to the shortened dry practice session, as they are the sole manufacturer with only two motorcycles on the grid.

The smooth layout of the Phillip Island circuit, along with the excellent traction provided by its fresh asphalt, appeared to favor Yamaha.

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Alex Rins secured a spot in Q2 and managed to qualify in ninth position. However, he dropped back to finish the race in 12th place, just behind his teammate Fabio Quartararo.

Massimo Meregalli, the team director, pointed out that Yamaha faced challenges with their sprint due to a lack of data. This issue arose because they have not had a satellite team since early last year.

Fortunately for Yamaha, this issue will be resolved in 2025 when they partner with Pramac. However, until then, they will have to endure this challenge.

"Focusing on the good news first, Alex managed to secure a spot in the third row," Meregalli stated.

"Nevertheless, the Sprint did not proceed as we had hoped or anticipated."

Both Fabio and Alex faced difficulties during the sprint race today, and they shared similar comments about their experiences afterward.

The circumstances over the weekend resulted in restricted track time, making it a significant drawback to have just two bikes on the track.

"We must analyze the data from today and dedicate all the time we have left to developing a solution that enhances the bike's overall performance, which should benefit our riders in the race tomorrow."

Rins mentioned that his start was hindered by a wheelie, and he dedicated nearly half of the race to getting his rear tire to the right temperature.

"In the qualifying session, we performed well, and during yesterday's practice, we managed to achieve a strong lap time that secured our place in Q2," stated Rins.

"This morning, despite the wet conditions, things weren't too bad. During the qualifying rounds, I felt quite pleased because we managed to achieve a good lap time given the circumstances."

"Initially, everything seemed to be going well, but issues arose during the Sprint. Although my reaction time was sharp, I experienced a wheelie and needed five or six laps to get the rear tire up to temperature. Managing the situation proved to be challenging."

"We were not anticipating the challenges encountered during the sprint, so we believe that tomorrow's race will be difficult, but we are committed to giving it our all."

Quartararo expressed dissatisfaction with the grip of his M1, stating: "Today was challenging, particularly during the qualifying session and the sprint race."

"I had a strong beginning, but Johann Zarco and Augusto Fernandez were closing in, which made it difficult for me to pass them."

"The traction was quite poor for us, and we faced significant challenges, but we're actively addressing the issue and seeking any favorable outcomes. Therefore, we will give it our all again tomorrow."

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