Quartararo full of ambition after his podium: "These last few years have been long"

In pole position for the first time since 2022 on Saturday, and now on the podium for the first time since 2023 this Sunday, fabio quartararo set the record straight in Jerez. While Ducati's dominance has been unchallenged so far this season, the Yamaha rider managed to remain strong throughout a weekend marked by hope.

Just before stepping onto the podium, the 2021 world champion looked back at the scenario of this race, which was almost unexpected given the strengths present. “It’s really incredible, to return to the podium is something very special, he rejoiced. Above all, the gap with Alex is not that big, he still had an advantage, we knew that. Being able to keep Pecco behind throughout the race was very difficult."

Le Mans already in Quartararo's mind

Still very happy on the podium, celebrating this second place with the air of victory, Fabio Quartararo did not fail to express his joy after several difficult seasons experienced since his title. “It’s been a long few years, I’m absolutely delighted to be back on the podium here in Jerez. Thanks to all the fans who supported us for so long, even yesterday after my crash, and I’ll see you at Le Mans!” he concluded, not without ambition.

Beyond this performance, which was close to a feat, given the most rational predictions before the start of this Spanish weekend, the French rider repeatedly emphasized the small gap separating him from the winners. Speaking to Canal+, Fabio Quartararo even suggested that his bike could be superior to Ducati in terms of front end, but struggled much more when he was in the chasing position. This Sunday, the situation thus seemed ideal for him.

By managing to put Francesco Bagnaia behind him in the race, the Yamaha standard-bearer has above all succeeded in building up confidence and benchmarks before the French Grand Prix. At Le Mans, Fabio Quartararo will clearly be in the best position to try to repeat such a performance, two weeks after having once again tasted the heights.

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