The Yamahas, which have benefited from a boost in performance in recent races, took full advantage of the low grip of the Sepang circuit in Malaysia to monopolize the first three places in qualifying, an event that had not occurred since Le Mans 2017 .
Benefiting from a higher speed through curves than their opponents, Iwata's machines have even less need to force their traction when exiting corners as the Malaysian layout allows them to avoid acceleration in first gear.
Obviously, even if he is not among the top three in qualifying, Valentino Rossi also benefits from this excellent compatibility between the M1 and the Sepang track, and the Italian champion often appeared solid during the various test sessions.
Fifth in the combined rankings on Friday, the Doctor was slower in FP3 but was nevertheless able to secure an eighth place allowing him to move directly into Q2.
A second place which seems to bode very well for the race was obtained during FP4 before qualifying on the second row, in sixth position.
After the fantastic start in Australia, morale seems to have returned to the box of number 46 who analyzes: “It seems like all the Yamahas here are fast, especially on the timed lap. Yamaha riders improved enormously during just one fast lap recently. Yes, it's true, I thought back to a few races where I had a lot of difficulty. Apparently I'm more competitive this weekend because I'm driving better and my pace is better. And then I can keep the rear tire alive longer, which gives me more consistent times. This is very important for tomorrow. I'll start from the second row, it's not that bad. But as always, there are four or five drivers with very good race pace. But on Sunday, it's always different for all the drivers. We will have to find out if I can be competitive here tomorrow too. We will do everything we can to have a good race. »
Ranking Qualification 2 MotoGP Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang:
Ranking Qualification 1 MotoGP Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang:
Credit rankings: MotoGP.com
