MotoGP News: Yamaha's New Engine Hits a Speed Bump at Dutch Grand Prix

Yamaha's new engine performance was questioned at the Dutch Grand Prix, with riders Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins highlighting its shortcomings on the Assen circuit.

Apr 14, 2024; Austin, TX, USA; Augusto Fernandez (37) of Spain and Red Bull Tech3 GASGAS and Fabio Quartararo (20) of France and Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP rides during the MotoGP Grand Prix of The Americas at Circuit of The Americas. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

At the recent Dutch Grand Prix, Yamaha's new engine faced scrutiny over its suitability for the Assen circuit's unique characteristics, prompting reflections from leading riders Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins. While successful during initial tests in Valencia, the engine's performance faltered in Assen's high-speed, fluid turns.

Quartararo noted: "The new engine works pretty well, but here in Assen, this is not a track where this engine will make a big difference."

Quartararo suggested that circuits like Austria and Misano, which play to the engine's strengths, might see better results. His feedback was echoed by Yamaha team director Massimo Meregalli, who acknowledged the engine's limited impact at Assen due to the track’s layout:

"Both riders noticed an improvement with the new engine, but the Assen track happens to be one of the few tracks where this does not make a lot of a difference because of its layout."

The Yamaha team's weekend was challenging, as evidenced by the qualifying struggles that saw Quartararo and Rins placing 13th and 16th, respectively. Despite these hurdles, Quartararo remained optimistic about the future, particularly with the strategic expansion through a partnership with Pramac Racing in 2025. He expressed his enthusiasm for the team's potential.

"Honestly, I'm super happy that Pramac Racing is joining Yamaha. Last year they won the Teams’ Title… and to have two more Yamahas on track next year is amazing, to be faster and collect more data."

Rins shared similar sentiments, focusing on the advantages of an expanded data pool from additional bikes on the track:

"We will have more data in the future to work with if we have two more bikes on track, so it's enjoyable. I already know from previous seasons that it is great to have data coming in from other riders with different riding styles, so it is going to be important."

As Yamaha prepares for its future endeavors, the integration of Pramac Racing is looked upon as an opportunity to use enhanced data analytics and shared resources to bolster its competitive edge. While Quartararo is confident in the engine’s potential at specific tracks, ongoing improvements are aimed at increasing the bike's turning and agility. 

Massimo Meregalli remains positive about this direction and underscored the benefits of increased data for development:

“Having two extra Factory bikes will benefit our team too, as it increases the data lag pool, and it aids bike development.”