Alex Rins compares himself to Fabio Quartararo

After a difficult first round in Qatar, the Yamaha riders are focusing on the development of their bike and will compete this weekend in an event that has smiled on one of them in the recent past, fabio quartararo having won in Porrtimao (Portugal) in 2021 and 2022.

Although the current situation will certainly not allow him to fight for victory, the Frenchman – 11th in the championship – expects to move up in the Drivers' ranking at the end of this meeting.

“The Qatar GP was not an easy start to the season, but we now know what to work on, comments number 20 on the sidelines of the event. The Portimao circuit is very different to Losail, so it will be interesting to see how the bike's handling and tire wear compare.

We didn't score any points in the Sprint in Qatar, we are in the middle of the standings, so we will do our best to grab positions this weekend, He continues. As always, I'm giving 100%, and I know the team is too, so let's see what we can do! »

Monster EnergyYamaha MotoGP Prepare for Round 2 in Portugal

📰 https://t.co/BJD77I2HCE#MonsterYamaha | #MotoGP | #PortugueseGP pic.twitter.com/zyaRjPWvvN

- Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP (@YamahaMotoGP) March 20, 2024

On the other side of the Japanese garage, Alex Rins continues his acclimatization to the bike, although he is already very happy with his performances. After analyzing the data collected in Qatar, the Spaniard even claims to be already at the level of his teammate and veteran of the team.

“Even though the result was not great, our race in Qatar was very useful to extract data and learn a lot of things for Portimao, adds #42. It's a shame that we paid the price for the last 6 laps by pushing too hard to recover positions because our tires were worn.

However, I'm happy because we were riding at a similar pace to the other Yamaha, which means we are on the same level and can work together to improve in the same way." he concluded.

Note that Rins' best result during the Portuguese event is a 4th place during the 2022 edition. He was then equipped with a Suzuki. Last year, the Portuguese Grand Prix was one of the few in which he took part, during a season marked by injuries, he then finished in 10th position with LCR Honda.

ALSO READ > Favorite Bagnaia in Portimao?