It was his first day in the MotoGP World Championship, and he finished Friday in 21st place, one second and eight tenths of a second off the top. Only Michele Pirro, called in to replace the injured Aldeguer, did worse than him.
This is the picture for Toprak, who is trying to find the right path to follow on his Yamaha. His journey is only just beginning, and as a result, it will take time and patience to get where the Turkish rider hopes to be.
For his part, however, he is fully aware of the moment he is experiencing, as well as the potential of the Yamaha.
"At the moment, I'm only focused on the Yamaha riders, without looking at the others," he said. "There's a gap, and I'm trying to improve by analyzing the data. Here at Buriram, I need to improve in the second sector. In fact, I need to take a decisive step forward for Saturday. The only important thing about this Friday is that I did a fast lap. I'm still working to improve the M1, especially in terms of electronics."
How do you feel about the pace?
"I need good pace because I don't have it yet as I would like. So I hope to make progress on the electronics front tomorrow. Obviously, it won't be easy."
What about the tyres, what are your impressions?
"If I try to be aggressive, the rear tyre locks up and I go off line. I was used to being aggressive in my riding, especially in the early stages of braking, but now I'm trying to adapt without having to change my style too much. I'll try something this weekend, knowing that I'll need more time."
Historically, you've always been a great braker...
"In fact, I'm focused on engine braking. In the first phase of braking, I tend to be too aggressive and end up locking up. As a result, we need to find a better balance, because I then lose the rear and everything becomes very difficult. Dovizioso is explaining to me how to brake, and I understand his instructions. The problem is that it all becomes difficult when I try to put it into practice, especially when I have to follow another rider, because I tend to be aggressive and make mistakes. Today, however, I managed to make a slight improvement, but we'll see tomorrow."
Toprak, how are you experiencing this wait? There are lots of posters with your image around Buriram...
"Very nice! But I'm focused on my work."
What's the difference between a Friday in SBK and MotoGP?
"I think it's better here because I have the chance to try more tyres."
Have you decided which seat to choose?
"I tried both, but in the end I decided to go back to the first version, the one I tried in Sepang, because I have to adapt."