Yamaha Prepares for Challenging Opening Day at Argentina MotoGP

Yamaha anticipates a tough start at the Argentina MotoGP due to slippery conditions but aims to improve as the track evolves. Historically successful at Termas de Rio Hondo, Yamaha hopes to regain momentum after a lackluster opening weekend in Thailand. Rider Fabio Quartararo acknowledges past challenges, while teammate Alex Rins emphasizes focus on grip management. The opening practice begins on Friday, setting the stage for potential recovery in the championship.

Yamaha anticipates a challenging opening day at the Argentina MotoGP, expecting slippery track conditions but hopeful for improvements as the surface becomes more conducive for racing. Following a disappointing start to the season in Thailand, Yamaha aims to regain its competitive edge at the Termas de Rio Hondo circuit, which has remained untouched by MotoGP bikes since 2023.

Historically, Yamaha has enjoyed success at this venue, with notable victories by Valentino Rossi in 2015 and a one-two finish in 2017 with both Rossi and Maverick Vinales. More recently, results have been less favorable, as top finishes in the post-Covid events ranged from eighth place for Fabio Quartararo to fourth for Franco Morbidelli.

Massimo Meregalli, the Monster Yamaha team director, expressed enthusiasm for returning to the Termas track, emphasizing its significance to both the team and the fans. “It’s nice to be back at the Termas track, where we have so many nice memories,” he stated, acknowledging the expected difficulty on Friday due to the still ‘green’ conditions.

2021 world champion Fabio Quartararo, who struggled to maintain his lead during the recent Buriram weekend, noted the challenges presented by the Termas track, where he has not previously excelled. “In the past, this hasn’t been an easy track for me, but, as always, we will give it our all to do a good job,” Quartararo remarked, highlighting his determination for improvement.

Teammate Alex Rins, who has achieved podium finishes at Termas during his Suzuki tenure, identified grip management as a crucial aspect for Friday’s practice. “On Friday we will need to focus on managing the grip because it will be low, but this will improve throughout the weekend and then let’s see where we stand,” Rins explained, committing to ongoing efforts to enhance performance.

The opening practice session at Termas de Rio Hondo is set to commence on Friday, marking a pivotal moment for Yamaha’s aspirations in the 2025 season.

In conclusion, Yamaha’s return to the Argentina MotoGP at Termas de Rio Hondo presents an opportunity for redemption following a challenging start to the season. With a historical legacy at the circuit and a focus on improving grip conditions over the weekend, both riders, Quartararo and Rins, are poised to give their utmost in the pursuit of competitive results. The team remains motivated to enhance their performance, reaffirming their commitment to the sport and the fans.

Original Source: www.crash.net