Now is the time to get serious and everyone at Ducati knows it. Dovizioso's second place finish in Qatar was a good start, but a win is the only result that counts. Another step has been taken with the GP16 but it remains to be seen whether it's enough.

The red squad is at Termas de Rio Hondo, with Austin coming straight afterwards, two solid targets at which to take aim.

“The championship doesn't end in Texas, we have the whole season ahead of us and shouldn't only focus on these two races - warns Iannone - We started out well and now we should concentrate only on continuing to work as we've done up until now. You don't look for a win but you build one, a bit like with love”.

Andrea may be philosophical, but Argentina is also a chance for him to make up for that crash at Losail.

“Of course I've thought about it - he admits - It's not easy to forget what happened when expectations were so high. Because of half a centimetre of white line I threw away all the work we'd done, but I need to put it behind me.”

Yet Qatar also highlighted some positives.

“We know the potential is there, we just have to make full use of it - he confirms - The engine is also fast, this track is different to Losail, where the turns flow and you can make the most of power. But the straight is quite long, which will be a significant advantage."

If it were to rain…

“At Phillip Island I was able to make some laps with the rain tyre and also test the intermediates, which impressed me. The conditions will be the same for everyone", he concludes.

Andrea Dovizioso Reaching that top step of the rostrum is also on Dovizioso's mind. Though pleased with the Qatari result, he knows it's not enough. The fans and Ducati want more.

“This is my fourth year, I know what has gone on in that time and I know exactly what I'm sitting on. It's normal that expectations are now higher - he says - We are working towards the win, but this doesn't mean I feel particular pressure. I know we have a good base, but also know how strong our rivals are."

Winning would solve many problems however, perhaps also quelling doubts about the future.

“Right now the situation is clear - Dovi does not name Lorenzo directly - I'm staying calm, I know my results can make the difference. A lot will also depend on the decisions of other riders, I don't have full control, but to influence my future I have to do my best. If I can stay ahead, I'll have less to worry about."

Or perhaps a win would help Jorge decide…

“But if I were to go slow, it would be worse for me - he jokes - Let's say that winning would nevertheless be a positive."

And now let's focus on the Argentinian GP.

“Don't ask me for predictions. None of us know this track very well and we'll also have the new tyres - he comments - I'm feeling calm, we need to face this weekend with an open mind, ready to manage any situation. We don't need to make radical changes, just small steps."