Uphill road
Yamaha’s pre-season has been extremely difficult. Between the Sepang and Buriram tests, the answers the Iwata-based manufacturer was looking for did not arrive; or rather, they did arrive, but of a different kind. The M1 arrives at the starting blocks of the 2026 season as the least competitive bike on the grid, difficult to push to the limit even in a single lap, which until last year seemed to be one of the few strong points (or at least less weak points) of the Japanese bike. Furthermore, the factory team has to resolve the internal issue regarding Fabio Quartararo’s future, who is now ‘betrothed’ for 2027 to arch-rivals Honda.
“Pre-season testing has shown us some challenging aspects and the consistent feedback from the riders gives us a clear direction to work on. Hard work awaits us – admitted Yamaha team director Maio Meregalli – our goal this week is to make the most of the current package and collect as much data as possible in a Grand Prix context”. Not exactly the words of someone who thinks they can achieve significant results.
“The preseason is over and we are starting the new season. We learned a lot during the tests: there were difficult moments, but also important steps forward and now it’s time to build on the foundations we have laid – declared Quartararo himself – I really like Thailand, this track and the fans who populate it. I will do my best”.
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“The tests showed us where we can push and improve, but also where we need to work. The direction is quite clear“, echoed Alex Rins, who after some difficult seasons is looking for some significant results to guarantee a future in the top class.
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