No doubt because the Austin circuit, 5,5 km long, is undoubtedly one of the most technical, both for the drivers, for the tuners and for the tire manufacturers, it is also one of the most interesting, as Valentino Rossi was keen to point out from the post-Argentinian GP press conference.
Valentino Rossi : “We now go to Austin which is perhaps the most delicate and difficult circuit of the season. But I like it because it's very technical, and over the last few years, honestly, I've been pretty good at it. So we will try to do a good job there as well.”
It is true that, at least in recent years, Yamaha number 46 has performed quite well there.
In 2016, the Doctor qualified on the front row before falling after 2 laps of the race.
In 2017, the 9-time world champion, qualified 3rd behind his teammate, reached the finish line in 2nd position.
In 2018, Valentino Rossi qualified 5th before finishing the race in 4th place.
During all these years, we have experienced much more difficult situations for the official Yamahas, which undoubtedly allows us to the man from Tavullia who occupies 3rd place in the championship to approach this Texan round with a certain confidence.
Valentino Rossi : “It was a great emotion to be on the podium again in Argentina, after such a long wait for me, the team and the fans. But now we have to focus on the next Grand Prix. We know Austin is a tricky track. This is perhaps the most difficult and technical track of the MotoGP season, but in previous years it hasn't gone so bad for me. In recent years, I have felt good, and even if I did not get on the podium last year, I was there in 2017. So you have to do like back then: work well, ride well, follow the good direction, and then we’ll see.”
Massimo Meregalli : “Our team and drivers always enjoy the American GP. Not only are the people here very cooperative, but COTA is also a great place to show off your skills, as it is one of the more complex tracks. While traditionally the circuit layout was not entirely suited to our Yamaha, in recent years our riders have both achieved good results. If we start the weekend well and continue to work in the right direction, we will be competing for the best places, which is our goal here. Maverick is doing great after his crash, so both riders are in great shape, and we are very motivated to start! ".
VALENTINO ROSSI ITA YAMAHA FACTORY RACING YAMAHA MotoGP GP Argentina 2019 (Circuit Termas de Rio Hondo) 28-31.03.2019 photo: MICHELIN
