Fabio Quartararo has revealed he has the chance to leave Yamaha – and insists he is not afraid of “change”.
Yamaha Racing’s managing director Lin Jarvis told Crash.net EXCLUSIVELY about Quartararo: “I hope he stays for many years,” but the former world champion’s long-term future is uncertain.
He watched as his first MotoGP win in 2021 dwindled to Francesco Bagnaia on the final day of the 2022 season, thanks to Ducati’s numerical and power lead.
Quartararo signed for two more seasons, but told Motorsport-Magazin.com: “I wouldn’t say [having a driver switch manufacturers] is scary. Of course, when you change manufacturers, you never know what’s going to happen.
“At the moment, almost every motorcycle has its positive side. In the World Championships, Yamaha, Aprilia, Ducati and Suzuki are at the top. Honda has also been strong at times this year, and KTM has been strong in Indonesia with Miguel Oliveira Won and narrowly beat Brad Binder in Qatar.
“Of course you have to adapt, but you rarely find yourself with a broken bike. There are always positives and negatives, but in the current situation you don’t have to be afraid of any change.”
Quartararo revealed that he had the option to leave Yamaha before signing the final contract: “Well, we already have the option. But to be honest, I don’t like dealing with things like this.
“My job is to reflect on the moment and do the best I can. I want to have the best package and be involved in projects that suit me best.
“That’s why I took a lot of time to make this decision and thought about it for a long time. It was absolutely necessary for me to be in a good position for the next few years.”
Yamaha boss Jarvis told Crash.net of Quartararo’s development since winning the 2021 title: “He’s become calmer, more rational. Less prone to anger and frustration etc. He still has, because when you don’t get your performance, every Every racer has that anger and frustration, but you can separate it.
“You can express it but then stop and get on with your work. That’s a great ability he has too. Regardless, I would say he’s matured as a person over the last 18 months.
“I hope he stays with Yamaha for many years, I think he has the potential to be a multiple world champion.”