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Four riders within 10 points and two of them are the Yamaha factory riders, a 'problem' that Massimo Meregalli, team director, is used to handling. First with Valentino and Lorenzo, now with the Doctor and Vinales: the addends change but not the result.
“We've scored four wins and eight podiums, more than any other manufacturer, with a completely new bike. Maverick and Valentino are, respectively, 4 and 10 points from the lead. Without the crashes for Valentino in France and Maverick in Holland, we'd probably be first and second in the standings right now, but there are no real regrets" underlines Maio, interviewed by Corriere dello Sport.
The former rider knows there's no point in dwelling on the ifs and buts and there is everything still to play for.
“It's well known that in Yamaha both riders have always enjoyed the same support, the same materials and the same chances, and that will be the same again this year” states Meregalli.
Yamaha has put together a strong team though, with a hungry youngster and an experienced 'old man'.
“His physical form, his dedication and passion for the sport are those of a 22-year old rider, not a 38-year old - he says of Rossi - The three consecutive second place finishes over the last three seasons are the result of his physical condition, his talent and an extraordinary strength of will . It's too soon to say whether he'll sign up for another year or two after 2018. We'll talk about it next year”.
And Vinales, who set out to dominate and then suffered a setback or two?
“The process of getting to grip with the new Michelins has definitely taken longer than we thought, and this has penalised us. He's lacked a little experience too, like at Assen, but for a 22-year old it's perfectly normal, we're really pleased with what he's done”, he replies.
Now they need to avoid mistakes because their rivals are ready and waiting. On this subject, Meregalli is clear about who he fears the most.
“I expect Honda to be the most dangerous. Marquez's talent will be potentially the most dangerous element of this second half of the championship”.
While he grants Lorenzo the honours of war.
“To be honest, I expected him to be a lot more competitive but I can't really judge. I'm sure that we'll see a different Lorenzo in the second part of the championship”, he concludes.
