MotoGP Malaysia J2, Fabio Quartararo (Yamaha Q8/S5): “It’s like riding a 500cc!”

Great day for Fabio Quartararo in Malaysia ! As is often the case, the Frenchman is fast at Sepang. His Yamaha YZR-M1 is evolving surely but slowly, and he too is starting to really stand out in the pack. After qualifying in eighth place, he finished fifth in the Sprint, his best result this season (he had already finished fifth in the short format at Jerez but had never done better). What interests him, beyond the results, is the progress made by Yamaha on the electronics front, even if this does not come without a significant counterpart.

Fabio Quartararo had reason to be proud of himself, as did his engineers. This fifth place in the Sprint acquired fairly was enough to make him smile. « Today was very positive, especially in FP2.. The pace was just excellent. On the other hand, in qualifying, we don't understand how the others manage to improve so much. Bagnaia and Martin gain two seconds compared to the other test sessions, and we, only one second and two tenths. During the Sprint we rode well too, even if I had a bit of trouble with the front tyre." he confided to the microphones of GP One. It's still very positive.

 

 

These improvements are due to recent modifications made to the YZR-M1, particularly on the electronic side. « We have made big changes. Usually this is a point that I criticize a lot and that I consider a defect compared to the others. But that's why I asked for a change now, on this track that is unlike any other. Now the electronics are different, but more delicate. It's exactly like a 500cc, compared to the Ducati. It's much more difficult to manage the bike like this, but you go faster." he added. Yesterday, he already specified that he was constantly battling with his mount to avoid highsideing.

 

 

Why does this seemingly minor change appear so late in the season, when everything is already decided? Firstly, because Sepang is a unique track, as it is used for crucial tests. Besides, Yamaha did not run with the new engine during the Sprint. Secondly, because there were other things to do before. « It would have been possible before, but there were other critical issues to be resolved.. There are many curves here where you can get a reliable idea. You can better analyze the situation." he concluded.

What do you expect from Fabio Quartararo for tomorrow? Tell us in the comments!

2024 Malaysian Grand Prix Sprint Result:

 

 

Classification credit: MotoGP.com

Cover photo: Michelin Motorsport