The spotlight will be firmly on him, because it's his last race with Yamaha and he'll start it from pole position. Jorge Lorenzo couldn't have wished for a better Saturday, wanting to bade farewell to the Japanese manufacturer with a win. Saturday's pole is a clear signal ahead of the race.
“To achieve the fastest time is a good result, but it's the race that counts. I had the right confidence with both the tyres and the track, in fact I improved with every exit. All of the solutions we've tried have brought positive results”.
The Michelins didn't let you down this time.
“In the afternoon the weather was ideal for the tyres. I think I've finally found the faith I was looking for in order to reach the top”.
You're the favourite for the race.
“The flying lap is one thing, with the soft tyres and a tank that isn't full, the race is quite another, with 30 consecutive laps to complete. We are competitive with every solution and tomorrow we'll decide on our best option”.
What do you hope for the race?
“A dry track I think everyone is keen to avoid the wet. Right now, I feel good and hope to repeat the performance tomorrow”.
There is talk of something new in terms of qualifying in the future.
“The current regulation is fine and I don't think it needs to be changed”.
How can you compare your first Yamaha pole and that of today?
“In 2008 it was an unexpected pole, despite having been strong in practice. To tell the truth, I wasn't even thinking about it, and didn't particularly enjoy it. This one yes though, also because I now have more experience and know how to enjoy certain moments”.
We saw you receive a sheet of paper in parc fermé.
“That was the timesheets, they always give them to me”.
Is it more important to win the race or finish third in the championship?
“We'll see during the race, how it plays out, particularly in terms of Vinales' position. A lot will depend on where he is. I really want to win the race, but third in the championship is also a consideration”.
What advice would you give Zarco ahead of his new adventure in Tech3?
“Watch out Johann (he smiles), the MotoGP has a lot of electronics, but you have to be careful”.
Over these nine seasons, how many times do you think you've had a top bike?
“In 2008 we had the best bike and the Bridgestones proved to be more consistent than the Michelins. In 2009 the Yamaha was strong too, just like 2012 and last year. Basically half of the seasons”.