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MotoGP, Vinales contradicts Rossi: “I'm more competitive with the new engine”

Maverick: “I can enter the turns quicker and the bike has better acceleration, we'll decide which to use on Thursday”

MotoGP: Vinales contradicts Rossi: “I'm more competitive with the new engine”

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Last week he proved to be the fastest Yamaha rider and he has confirmed that once again today. We're talking about Maverick Vinales, who rounds out day one of testing at Jerez in fourth place, just behind Nakagami on the Honda.

I'm fairly pleased - starts Maverick -  we've improve on our flying lap time compared to last year and we're working hard on our race pace too. This is the path we're following during the Jerez test and I have to say that our traction has improved too, I can be quicker and more consistent”.

Maverick is therefore looking pretty confident.

“I'd say that we have slightly clearer ideas, engine aside though, we need to take a step forward in terms of set-up, exploiting the acceleration. The important thing is to keep calm and take it one step at a time. I definitely feel stronger than I did during the last race".

While Rossi's M1 is faced with a one and a half second gap from the front, Maverick's Yamaha appears to have another gear.

“We're working with the same mentality as at Valencia, though it's harder to complete a strong flying lap here. Considering my riding style, I prefer an engine that allows me to be more aggressive in braking. Now I can enter the turns faster and maintain better speed”.

So Thursday promises to be a crucial day for Vinales.

“My comments are clear and together with the team we'll make the right choice. We need to be precise, as we have a lot of material available. The plan is to make a definitive decision tomorrow”.

Lastly, a word about Esteban Garcia, the Spaniard's new crew chief, as well as the track conditions.

i'm getting on great with him, he's very calm and easy to work with. The asphalt has got worse, especially turn eight”.   

 

Translated by Heather Watson

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