Zarco and Quartararo, a first day of complete opposition in Misano

Rain greeted world championship drivers MotoGP Friday morning at the Misano circuit. Conditions that Johann Zarco likes unlike his compatriot and general leader fabio quartararo. The latter is not at all comfortable, particularly when the track is mixed.

Leading the first session, Zarco concluded the opening day with the second combined time, just under a second behind the benchmark set by another Ducati, that of Jack Miller. “It was a good first day,” he said. This is the level I want to be at and I have to enjoy it. With the difficulties I have had recently, I must not hope too much, but rather take what comes and be happy with it. This is what I'm doing today, hoping to do it again tomorrow. We have a chance to play for the first row if the conditions are still difficult. In the wet, I have time to do things. The ideal would be for it to be the same in the dry and I think it's possible. With work, it will come. I am happy. You have to take it lightly to stay fast tomorrow. »

It's better when it's wet...

Even if he is not fond of the rain, Quartararo also said he was rather delighted with his performances when the track was wet. However, his opinion is not at all the same when conditions change. “To be honest, I'm happy as long as it's completely wet,” he said. This afternoon, I felt good from the start. Until we stopped, we were seventh and I was happy. But as soon as it dries, it's like you're riding a totally different motorcycle. It doesn't turn, it doesn't get up, no grip... all the problems that we encounter in these conditions are there. But when it's totally wet, I won't say I'm super happy, but we've made a big step forward since our last time here. When the conditions are mixed, I don't know why we are so bad. »

Valentino Rossi, crowned nine times in Grand Prix, believes that in the Frenchman's position, it is preferable to win the title as quickly as possible, an opinion that the Nice native does not share. “Every person is different,” he said. I think otherwise. He has very good experience on this subject, but regarding me, I don't want to rush. Between the United States and Misano, there was a moment where I told myself that I had to win this weekend, but I said to myself “calm down, we must not make mistakes, is the most important.” So I have to stay calm and do my best. If it's not here, it will be in Portimao, but you shouldn't worry about that. »

The forecast is for rain on Saturday and if the track is completely wet, the two Frenchmen have a chance to play. On the other hand, if the conditions are mixed…