Things are moving quickly this season in MotoGP, and not just on the track. The backstage almost stole the show from the circuit. The year 2016 is only in its first stages and the chessboard for 2017 is already being put in place. A Rossi assured at Yamaha for two years, a Lorenzo leaving for Ducati… Does this mean that the title is already in the pocket of Márquez?
We will see, but it is clear that, at Yamaha, we will end up wondering how we got there. Because when reading the raw data, it is indeed the Iwata brand which is the boss of the premier Grand Prix category. In 2015, the official M1s triumphed eleven times in eighteen given occasions, the two factory drivers finished first and second in the championship and the constructor's title was collected. A priori, something to celebrate and build loyalty among all employees.
Yes, but there are corrections and other variations which give a less clear vision of the state of affairs at Yamaha. The management of the end of the 2015 financial year was not perfect and the ensuing off-season even less so. By wanting to accommodate all sensibilities, the manufacturer has satisfied no one. Valentino Rossi locked himself in deep resentment against Marc Marquez which Jorge Lorenzo considers having inducted him as a collateral victim of choice.
Result ? The titles and victories acquired, as well as the exceptional achievements of the drivers, were not celebrated as they should be. And it leaves its mark, it creates frustrations, disappointments, and the irrepressible desire for a change of scenery. Ducati understood this well and was able to tip Por Fuera into its camp, with a financial flick as the icing on the cake.
Now, what about Yamaha? Technical monitoring will logically focus on the one who will stay, the tests and developments will not be a priority for the starter, who, however, would be best able to keep the crowns for Iwata. Procrastination which will not be the lot of a Marc Márquez who will only have his only journey this season as a concern. Honda is already rubbing its hands over the absences and blunders of Yamaha which offered an unexpected opportunity to Ducati.
