This first official press conference of the 2018 season brought together Marc Márquez, Andrea Dovizioso, Maverick Vinales, Valentino Rossi, Johann Zarco and Andrea Iannone today on the Losail circuit in Qatar, a few minutes after theofficial announcement of the renewal of Valentino Rossi at Yamaha for two more years.
As usual, we report here our translation of the entirety of the latter's remarks, without any journalistic formatting or distortion.
A year ago, did you think you would be sitting here, a year later, as a potential world title contender?
Johann zarco : “no, I didn’t expect that. I didn't expect to be here 12 months ago. Leading the race last year gave me great confidence, and more than that, the way I finished the season was good for understanding a lot of things with the top drivers. And after these three tests, in Malaysia, Thailand and here, I was very satisfied to lead the ranking. It was only one lap, but it brought a smile to the whole team and me, and made us want to repeat this during the race weekend. »
The fact that Tech3 is leaving Yamaha at the end of the season, what consequences does this have on you?
“It doesn't change the plans for Tech3 to go with KTM next year, because currently we have Yamahas, which suits me well, and the team knows the bikes well. So I think that, for them and for me, even if we don't know yet what I can do next year, trying to get the most out of the bikes will be for them (the team) the best way to finish with them (Yamaha). »
Before the season starts, who do you think are the main contenders for the 2018 title?
“I mean more or less like everyone else. There will be a lot of drivers but I think Marc is at the top, he is the reference at the moment, and the objective for the championship is to beat him, because he is the favorite everywhere. »
What is your reaction to the renewal of Valentino Rossi's contract for two years?
“I think we have to say thank you because it makes the dream come true for newcomers or new guys like me. It's just fantastic. If he had stopped before, we could have gone to MotoGP, but without the dream of following Valentino. We had this opportunity and I just say thank you for continuing. »
What is your goal for 2018 and do you think you can win the championship?
“It’s a big question whether I can win the championship. I think it's too difficult to answer, for this second season and in this situation. Last year I finished sixth, so my first wish is to finish at least in the top 5 in the championship. Then, if I think about my pace at the end of the season, which translates to being on the podium many times, then why not think about a top 3? But it's easier said than done and I also want to use the experience I have gained in Moto2 to give my best in each race. Like I said, if I use the bike well in each of these 19 races, I will be at the top of the standings. Just need to figure out how to do it all the time. »
Social Media Question: What do you think about having a Malaysian teammate?
“I am very happy for him and I think, even more in Thailand and Malaysia, we will be like superstars. He will be a superstar, and with me alongside him, we will undoubtedly have a very busy race weekend. But it's good. When he came, I could see he had friends with him who were excited to be there. He also has great support from his country, and it's nice to see that. »
