MotoGP, Rossi: "I would have preferred to stop, I'm aiming for the podium in Spain"
Vinales: “At Barcelona I have what I need to be competitive, but I'll also need to be smart"
Submitted by GPone on Thu, 08/06/2017 - 10:01
Valentino Rossi will have to grit his teeth, because the championship is straight back on track this weekend at Barcelona. A calendar that isn't exactly helping the Doctor, who is still dealing with physical problems after his MX crash. The Yamaha rider doesn't hide his disappointment: “I would have liked a week off to really get back in shape after Mugello – comments #46 – last Sunday I got on well with the bike anyway and hope to be able to do better at Barcelona”.
The nine-time champion already knows what he wants: “I'd like to reach the podium – he reveals – this track has less grip than some others, but I like it and we need to find the best set-up in order to be competitive and ensure the tyres can perform”.
Maverick Vinales will be fighting on home turf, after finishing second in the Italian GP: “I'll be racing in front of my home crowd, which will be special – comments the championship lead – the track really suits my riding style, and also the M1”.
The Spaniard is very aware of his current situation: “I feel strong and fast, and am convinced that the set-up of the Yamaha will be competitive – he confirms –I'm very motivated ahead of this race. I'll try to bring home as many points as possible and reach the podium– he concludes – I know I'll need to be smart, especially in terms of the tyres”.