Malaysian MotoGP Schedule Boosts Quartararo’s Performance

MotoGP, Sportrik Media - A schedule tweak at the 2025 Malaysian Grand Prix significantly aided Fabio Quartararo, who secured fifth place at Sepang Circuit. The Yamaha Factory Racing rider capitalized on improved track conditions after Moto2 was rescheduled post-MotoGP. This in-depth analysis explores Quartararo’s performance and the impact of the schedule change.

Following a serious incident before the Moto3 race, the Moto2 event was moved to after the MotoGP race, altering the usual schedule. Typically, Moto2’s Dunlop tires leave rubber residue on the track, slightly affecting grip levels for MotoGP, particularly for Yamaha bikes struggling with rear tire activation early in races.

This change allowed Quartararo to race aggressively from the start. “When we start before Moto2, I can push hard in the early laps, and today I could do that,” Quartararo said. He finished fifth, 11.5 seconds behind the winner, marking his best result since the Catalan Grand Prix.

During the 20-lap race, Quartararo engaged in fierce battles with Franco Morbidelli of VR46 and Joan Mir of Honda. Despite feeling Mir was faster, Quartararo employed defensive tactics. “I tried to close every gap and ride as fast as possible,” he noted. However, an aggressive overtake by Morbidelli in the final corner forced him to slow down to manage his soft tires.

Quartararo achieved his target of finishing fifth to seventh, outpacing other Yamaha riders. Alex Rins finished 13th, while teammate Miguel Oliveira crashed out.

Quartararo’s performance highlights Yamaha’s potential despite its bike’s limitations. The unexpected schedule change proved advantageous, but it also underscores the need for technical improvements to enhance early-race tire grip. Moving forward, Yamaha must focus on optimizing its bike to remain competitive in the demanding 2025 season. With Quartararo’s skill and team strategy, Yamaha is poised for stronger results in upcoming races.