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With two Yamahas on the front row, more was expected of Valentino who instead was unable to do better than the 7th spot on the Phillip Island starting grid. The drops of rain that began to fall right at the start of the qualifiers had an impact on the Doctor’s performance and he is the first to admit as much.
“These are definitely not the conditions in which I express myself the best - he explained - This is a very fast track. It was raining, and we went out on slicks. Certain situations demand a lot of courage.”
You’ll start from the third row…
“It isn’t a disaster, but it’s a pity because in normal conditions I would have had the potential for the second row. This is a very particular track and in the race the slipstreams can make a big difference.”
There are 3 Yamahas in the top 7 spots. Is that a surprise?
“This is a track where the M1 had usually done well. Viñales and Zarco are fast here too, so it is a combination of things.”
You have been fast recently at Buriram and Phillip Island, two very different track. What does that mean?
“I don’t think it means anything (laughs). It depends a lot on the track design and on which tyres we can use.”
Is the Yamaha at the same level as it was in Thailand?
“Not right now. In Buriram, we were faster. The race will be different too, because I expect a group race tomorrow. Tyre choice will be important, because on the rear I am still undecided between the soft and the medium. And then, we’re hoping for sunshine.”
What are the levels on the track?
“Iannone and Márquez are the fastest and Viñales is close to them. Then there is a group made up of Zarco, Dovizioso, Rins and maybe Miller.”
Where are you in all this?
“In this second group. Today was a positive day overall where I was able to improve my pace. As far as I’m concerned, a good goal would be to finish on the podium.”
