Fabio Quartararo, the 2021 MotoGP World Champion, has expressed his concerns regarding Yamaha’s current performance and the need for immediate improvements. Despite finishing sixteenth in qualifying and twelfth in the first sprint of the season in Qatar, Quartararo remains committed to the Yamaha project. However, he is aware of the challenges the team faces and emphasizes the necessity for quick progress.
Quartararo’s faith in Yamaha’s long-term project is tempered by the reality of their current struggles. He acknowledges the team’s efforts but points out the difficulty in seeing tangible progress when the results are not meeting expectations. The significant drop in tire performance mid-sprint, which the team does not fully understand, is particularly concerning given the longer race distances they will face.
As one of the most talented riders on the grid and one of the few current MotoGP champions, Quartararo’s future with Yamaha is uncertain. With many potential seat changes in 2025, he may consider following Marc Márquez’s example by leaving his long-time team for a more competitive opportunity.
“I hadn’t thought about it, but I will have to analyze it well and set a limit for myself. I’m not sure what my limit may be, but let’s see, we have to think very carefully about any decision we will make. At the moment I believe in the project, but I really have to see things in the short term as well.”
Quartararo’s comments reflect a critical juncture in his career. While he believes in Yamaha’s project, he also recognizes the importance of setting personal limits and making decisions that align with his career goals and aspirations for success. His situation underscores the delicate balance riders must navigate between loyalty to a team and the pursuit of competitive performance.