The post-qualifying conference for this Japanese Grand Prix brought together Valentino Rossi, Marc Marquez, Jorge Lorenzo, Johann Zarco and Hiroki Ono.
As usual, we therefore offer you a full “raw” translation of the words of Jorge Lorenzo, without any journalistic formatting or distortion.
On the front line after this huge fall in FP3…
“Yes, I think it's been a long time since I had a fall like today. I flew far, many meters in the air, then I hit the ground very hard, very heavily. So at first I was worried because my whole body was sore and I was expecting the worst, especially regarding my left leg. But in the end, it was just big impacts on almost the whole body but especially on this leg. So we went to the hospital as a precaution where they checked my whole body, then we came back to the circuit to do FP4.
I was much better than I expected, the bike was working well and I was getting faster and faster with each lap. So I was really surprised by that, and I was ready to fight for pole position, but you know, Marc and Rossi's times were very fast, especially Rossi's who was following Vinales, and I couldn't not be closer; even when attacking, I couldn't get pole.
I'm happy with this front row, I think we have good potential to fight for victory tomorrow. »
The race is 24 laps; you will see your condition tomorrow morning...
“Yes, when I hit the ground again after returning by helicopter, I had a lot of pain. I couldn't walk very well. but with the painkillers, and also with the adrenaline of qualifying, I felt a great improvement, and on the bike, I forgot about the fall and the bruises; I rode well and strongly, so it should be ok for tomorrow. »
The tires need to be warmed up here; do you think you can attack from the start of the race?
“Yes, as always, the start will be crucial, as well as how the best riders feel on the bike; whether they feel better or worse than Saturday. This will be one of the keys.
The last ten rounds will also be very important. Drivers who can control their rear tire more will have a big advantage at the end of the race.
I expect a close race at the start and maybe a little less close in the last few laps. »
Did you feel the protection of the airbag during your fall?
“Yes, he was ok. It worked well. THANKS. »
How do the Michelins behave in relation to this braking problem?
“I've never had any problems in the past, so I hope and think it will be good tomorrow. »
Is the soft front tire the only option to aim for victory tomorrow or is it likely to deteriorate?
“No, I didn't want to try the Medium tire again because I had some vibrations and some lockups when I tried it yesterday. But I tried it again during the last minutes of FP4, and the tire was working well; it seems that with higher temperatures I don't have vibrations and I don't have blockages. So it is possible to race with both tires. Soft has its advantages, Medium has its advantages, but we are competitive on both and it will depend on the weather. »
