P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Fabio Quartararo rates Montmelo as one of his favourite tracks but warns Yamaha’s grip woes could again hold him back.
Fabio Quartararo has experienced a shift in performance following strong MotoGP finishes before the summer break, now struggling to reach top positions with a best of tenth in the last four races.
Incidents and penalties, as well as the layout of certain tracks, have exposed weaknesses in Yamaha’s performance, especially at Red Bull Ring and Balaton Park.
The upcoming Barcelona MotoGP offers a different challenge with faster corners that suit the M1 Yamaha better, although the track’s low grip has historically been a challenge for the team.
Quartararo, despite expressing a fondness for the circuit, remains cautious about the team’s momentum but aims for a top 10 finish during Friday practice.
Yamaha’s efforts include preparation based on previous testing data, with an acknowledgment from team director Massimo Meregalli of the challenges posed by Barcelona’s track conditions.
Looking ahead, Quartararo will test Yamaha’s new V4 prototype in September, currently sitting in tenth place in the championship with eight races remaining.
