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MotoGP, Espargaro: "Vinales for title? At least eight can win it"

"Maverick deserved the double success in Austin. I hope to do well in Jerez where Pedrosa, one of the best ever, will also be there. For 2025 I hope to also see Yamaha and Honda up front and different rules on the maximum number of bikes that can be fielded by a manufacturer."

MotoGP: Espargaro:

In the U.S. Aprilia scored a double victory that certainly gave morale to the Noale-based stable, and even a veteran like Aleix Espargaro was not immune to this gust of euphoria on the eve of the Jerez round.

"Maybe we still don't have the best bike even though we are close, but the atmosphere in the team is incredible . It was before the win and it is now. Maybe Vinales is more relaxed because he was chasing this success for so long. He deserved it and I am happy for him and for his part of the box he said - As far as I am concerned Portimao and Austin are two tough tracks, but here I have always been fast and so has the RS-GP. Two years ago we went on the podium and took pole, so I'm optimistic that we can do well. Can Maverick take the World Championship? We have to give time to time, however I consider him as much a contender for the title as the top eight in the standings since they are all close."

Despite the technical concessions, the Japanese manufacturers still seem far behind. "This is an aid, not magic, so I am not surprised. The changes started last winter, so the benefits will be noticed starting next year. Anyone who loves our sport hopes they will improve ," his words.

Should a cap be put on the number of bikes fielded by a manufacturer?

"Yes 100 percent, because those who field so many riders have numerous benefits. What Ducati has done is incredible, but it's much easier if you occupy half the grid. So I think something should be done and not exceed four bikes per manufacturer," his pointed comment.

Twelve months ago on this circuit the two pivotal issues were tire pressure and overtaking. This year the tire issue has taken a back seat. For what reason?

"In 2023 the new rules debuted, so the engineers still had to understand how it worked, plus it was much hotter and third, now the regulations are a little less strict, so I hope it will be easier. What compound will be chosen? I think definitely the hard one."

The motorcycles currently in use are unmatched in terms of speed compared to those of the past in motorcycle racing. Could this be something dangerous in the long run? "Many tracks have the runways of fifty years ago, but the bikes go ten seconds faster. The Moto 3s of today, they are the 500 cc bikes of yesteryear. In my opinion we are at the limit on the safety front," he pointed out.

After glossing over what wild card Savadori will test and his testing of the new communication system, the Iberian joked about Dani Pedrosa's presence in the GP: "In this way I will not be the oldest. He is one of the strongest riders in history and it is a pleasure to race against him. Ie xpect to see him very strong."

Finally a note on tires: "Do the Pirellis have more grip? We'll see on European tracks and more typical layouts. Compared to Dunlop the quality seems better and the grip drop is less."

 

Automatic Translation by DeepL

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