The French rider from the PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing team remembers his first experience in MotoGP during pre-season testing in Valencia and Jerez.
Fabio Quartararo will be one of the rookies to watch on his Yamaha YZR-M1 in 2019, the Frenchman already showing a rapid adaptation to MotoGP during the first official winter tests. The PETRONAS Yamaha SRT team rider, who at just 19 years old will be the youngest in the category, explains how his dream of the premier class came true, talks about his first laps on a MotoGP and reveals his overall impressions after his first days of work with the Malaysian team.
When and how did you receive the offer to participate in this ambitious project?
“The first time I talked about it with my manager was the Monday after the Dutch TT. At the time, he just told me that there might be the possibility of moving to MotoGP. From that moment on, we progressed every day to realize this dream, and it came true at the Sachsenring, where we reached an agreement with the team. »
What did you think when you first heard about this challenge?
“When my manager first told me about it, I didn’t believe him. Things were progressing well each day, but until I signed the contract, I couldn't relax. »
Was the offer a surprise or were you planning to move up to the premier class in 2019?
“Honestly, I didn't think I would have such a good opportunity to move into MotoGP this season. But once the first contact was established, we knew that this team would immediately fight to be the best satellite team, that it would have a very professional technical staff and a very positive atmosphere, so I did not hesitated to take up the challenge. »
Did you change anything in your physical training before the first pre-season tests?
“Yes, actually I started working more specifically on the arms during the Pacific tour, but when I got into MotoGP it wasn't as physical as I expected. That doesn't mean that I don't have work to do this winter, to prepare myself as best as possible for the pre-season and then for the Grands Prix. »
How was the first lap on a MotoGP?
“It was a very strange feeling. I was a little anxious, I didn't feel comfortable. Once in the straight line, I could feel the power of these bikes: it was… spectacular! The bike always got up in sixth gear. It was one of the most fun straights of my life! »
What surprised you the most during the tests?
“Even though I expected it, the power still surprised me, especially during the first laps. You reach 300 km/h very quickly. Little by little, I got used to the speed, although I still have a way to go. But the most striking thing is undoubtedly the carbon brakes. We go down to 50 km/h much faster than in Moto2, but the braking points are practically the same: it's incredible! »
Do you feel like you're going to have to change a lot of things in your riding style?
“Together with the technical staff we analyzed the way I ride the bike, and the truth is that there is not much to change, which surprised me. I know I need to be faster in the corners, but… step by step. »
How is working with this new PETRONAS Yamaha SRT team?
“We are a new team but with very experienced professionals in the World Championship, which in the end is the most important thing. The first tests went very well, I felt very comfortable with the whole team. I can't wait to get winter break over with so we can get back to work together. »
What is your plan for the next two months?
“First of all, to rest and spend a few days with my family, especially at Christmas. Then, I have planned a very tough winter, with a very physical training program, to make sure I am 100% ready in February when the pre-season resumes in Sepang.”
The Sepang tests will be a good opportunity to meet the fans in Malaysia….
“Of course, we have already seen this year at the Sepang International Circuit how the fans supported the Malaysians during the Grand Prix. We are excited to go back now and feel their support, to be able to ride in front of them with the new colors on our motorcycles. This will be a very special opportunity for the team. »
Quartararo, Jerez MotoGP test, 2018
Quartararo, Jerez MotoGP test, 2018
Quartararo, Jerez MotoGP test, 2018
