MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Maverick Vinales has emphasised the importance of clarity on the bike and full concentration on the 2026 MotoGP season with KTM, insisting he is in no rush to decide his contractual future. The Spaniard expressed satisfaction with the opening pre-season test and believes a solid base set-up will be key to moving closer to the front of the grid.
Addressing the change of venue in Australia, Vinales adopted a pragmatic and open stance, underlining that riders must adapt to organisational decisions while maintaining a professional mindset.
“I don’t think there’s much to say. The organisers bring us to a different place in Australia, and I think we need to approach it positively and keep an open mind. In the end, we have to race somewhere else. I assume that if we go there, it will be safe enough for MotoGP.”
Regarding pre-season testing, Vinales explained that the programme served mainly to confirm technical direction rather than to explore radical changes. He said he quickly understood what he needed from the KTM package and was pleased with the team’s preparation.
“The test plan was mainly for confirmation. Honestly, I’m quite happy with the package. From the first day, it was clear what I liked about this bike. The crew had time to understand whether we needed to return to the initial plan or take another direction. Right now, we’re focused more on that than anything else.”
He added that the first day was dedicated to comparing set-up directions, while the second was centred on race weekend simulation work. For Vinales, technical clarity at this stage of the season is crucial.
“I have a very clear idea of where I want to go and how to get there.”
Vinales also highlighted the importance of achieving the correct base set-up to challenge near the front. He referenced team-mate Brad Binder’s performance as evidence of the bike’s potential when properly configured.
“I saw Brad’s race — he almost won it. For me, it’s about having a good set-up. A bike that works, that’s it. Last year we were far from our base set-up and our capability level. I don’t have a fixed image in my head of where we’ll be, but I’m confident that if we race well, we’ll be close to the front.”
On his contractual future, Vinales acknowledged that the rider market is moving quickly but reiterated that he prefers to prioritise performance and stability before making long-term decisions.
“Contracts are always complicated; you’re always trying to understand where you want to go. For me, it’s quite clear, but it’s still too early for everything. First, you need to test the bike, understand it, check things with the team. Everyone seems to be moving very fast.”
The number 27 rider reaffirmed his commitment to KTM and stressed that he values continuity over rushed decisions. A strong start to the season, he suggested, would naturally shape discussions about the future.
“I’m happy with KTM; I’ve always expressed my satisfaction with this factory, and they know it. For me, it’s just a matter of time, but I’m not in a hurry. If we start the championship well, it will be even better.”
As the 2026 MotoGP campaign approaches, Vinales’ approach reflects a strategy centred on technical stability, methodical development, and season-long focus. For now, performance takes priority over speculation, with long-term decisions set aside until competitive form is firmly established.
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