‘Consistency was the key’ to winning MotoGP title - Quartararo

As the only rider to finish every race in the points this season, new MotoGP World Champion Fabio Quartararo has put his title success down to consistency in large part.

Not only has Quartararo finished every race in the points, but the Yamaha rider has only been out of the top ten once, which was due to suffering from arm pump in Jerez while leading. 

And although Quartararo had to start today’s Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix from 15th - his worst qualifying position ever as a premier class rider, the 22 year-old quickly showed his pace to regain several positions. 

While a few crashes helped the French rider, none more so than Francesco Bagnaia’s fall whilst leading, Quartararo was set for yet another top ten regardless; the type of consistency he believes was key to winning the 2021 title. 

"I think the consistency that we had this year; I’m touching wood, but we finished all the races that we make, scoring every time points, points, points," said Quartararo. 

"I think even in Jerez I sored three points with the arm pump problem. I think the consistency of 2021 is the same as 2019, but we are faster. This I think is the key to win the championship this year."

Despite his incredible consistency, Quartararo has won the title with what he believes is not the best motorcycle on the grid. 

Quartararo is however adamant that it’s one of the best and can be put over the edge by improving its horsepower deficit to the likes of Ducati. 

Quartararo added: "I don’t know. I haven’t yet tried the Honda, the Ducati, but what we can say is looking at all the other Yamaha riders and comments then no. 

"For me it is working pretty well. We are world champions, so I think that we can be really happy. We need to work. 

"To be honest I’m feeling really good with the bike, but I’m still struggling in many areas and with overtake. It depends on the track. 

"This track was so difficult and everybody knows where we need to improve. It’s horsepower, with more horsepower we can have the best bike of the paddock, but I think Yamaha know where they need to work. Right now I can’t say if it’s the best."