Rossi finds Portimao track difficult on a MotoGP bike after FP1

The first few kilometres on the Portimao track this morning offered very different sensations for Vinales and Rossi. Maverick was immediately at ease and set the 2nd best time in FP1, only behind local hero Oliveira. Valentino, on the other hand, struggled a lot more and ended the first practice session in 19th place.

“This is a very difficult track, especially with a MotoGP bike – said the Doctor - It‘s very busy! I didn‘t feel very well with the balance of the bike this morning, so we have to work to improve the feeling and then we‘ll see.”

Diametrically opposite the comments of his teammate, as was to be expected given the different positions in the standings.

“I enjoyed it a lot – declared Vinales - It‘s been a long time since I enjoyed myself like this on the bike. The bike is also working fantastic, so I don‘t have too many issues on the track. I‘m just enjoying it and I‘m riding quite well. For this afternoon, the goal is to keep learning the track, especially considering the gearbox, and then we will see. But overall the feelings are very positive, and like I said, I‘m just enjoying it so much on the bike.”