MotoGP, Rossi: beat Marquez? The difficult part starts now

Not since 2010 has Valentino Rossi started on the front row twice in the first three races, and in terms of Austin, it's his first front row start. The Doctor seems to have improved in qualifying, “also thanks to the Michelins, on which I'm more comfortable on the flying lap. Also, if I want to fight against Lorenzo and Marquez we have to start in front”.

This is his race aim, also because March seems to be somewhat less unbeatable than usual. Which doesn't mean it will be a walk in the park of course. “Now I have to focus on myself and work on the details. The difficult part begins now, and the start and opening laps will be essential in order to stay with them. If I can do that, then I'll see what else I can do”, he explains.

Yamaha is closer, it that down to you or is it the Honda that's in trouble?

“We're continuing to improve, it we continue on like this, in 6 or 7 years we'll even be able to win at Austin (he laughs). Joking aside, the situation this year changes from track to track, even from turn to turn. The Ducatis were quicker than us yesterday, today they struggled. The tyres are making a big difference, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worst”.

How are you fixed?

“We've been able to improve the bike and now I have good pace. A lot will depend on the conditions tomorrow, as we still have to decide on the tyre. It would be better if it were cooler, both for the bike and physically-speaking”.

Have you also tried a bike with the cap at the rear of the tank…

“Yamaha is continuing to work on weight distribution but there hasn't been enough time to test it properly. We'll do it at Jerez, during Monday's test”.

Are you worried about the tyres?

“Historically we've always suffered with the front here but now it seems as though we have less problems".

You used the winglets…

“I gave in, I wanted to be the last bastion... (he laughs). Yamaha suggested I did it because they do help, but they're a trifle”.