Valentino Rossi today could not have found a better hook on the Losail track. In qualifying he followed Bagnaia in his record lap, a reference that certainly helped him to set the 4th time that will allow him to start from the second row in the race.
“It was nothing planned, I was lucky to be in the right place – explained Valentino – I want to congratulate Pecco, he was scary. Starting the season in a new team with pole is the best, I think he is a great interpreter of Ducati because he has managed to modify his riding style in order to circumvent the problems and take advantage of the characteristics of his bike”.
Also for the Doctor they were the first qualifications with a new uniform, that of Petronas.
“In fact, I am very happy – he has declared – Also for me it was a good way to start the year, with the second set of tires I felt comfortable, I was able to drive well without making mistakes and I did a great time, even if unfortunately it was not enough for the first row. I came from tests that were not fantastic but in recent years I have understood that in MotoGP everything can change from one session to another and you must never give up. However, it is very important to start from the front for the race”.
Here, the race. Where can Valentino go? Is the podium a possible goal?
“Hard to say now – the answer – In FP3 and FP4 I struggled but I knew it would happen because I had very used tires. We also tried to make some changes to the bike that didn’t go well. Today my pace wasn’t great, we’ll have to retrace our steps and we’ll see. I also wanted to try the medium tire because if it were hot it would be difficult to do the whole race with the soft ones. The hope is to find good conditions, for us pilots and especially for the fans who are looking forward to this first race “.
The problem will be to contend with the Ducatis, because they fly on the straight. As Zarco demonstrated by exceeding 362 km / h.
“I think he will beat that record again, the Zarco and Ducati pairing is formidable in this sense and at Mugello he will certainly go faster. – prediction – Is it dangerous? Already after 330 per hour it becomes so, I know that the fans get excited for certain numbers, but it’s dangerous. Speaking of us, we have reduced the disadvantage on the straight a bit, but it remains large and this is the main reason why it is difficult to get into a fight with the Yamaha, you have to overcome the corners but then they overtake you on the straight. Morbidelli is one of the best interpreters of the M1 because he starts from the front, goes on the run and wins, I don’t know what will happen in this race but I would be happy to finish in the top 5 “.
Speaking of Franco and Pecco, Valentino also took on the role of Academy boss for a moment.
“I am proud of them. It is also nice because the manufacturers believe a lot in the work of the VR46, they know that our drivers are serious, true professionals. In fact, Ducati trusted Bagnaia and my brother too, but then they make the difference”.
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