Last Sunday at the Circuit of the Americas, Maverick Viñales secured his first Grand Prix win since 2021, clinching victory in both the sprint race and the main event after starting from pole position.
Despite leading from the outset in the sprint race, Viñales faced a setback at the start of the Grand Prix, dropping to 11th place following contact at Turn 1. However, he mounted a remarkable comeback, regaining positions and seizing the lead on the 13th lap out of 20, ultimately crossing the finish line 1.7 seconds ahead of his competitors.
Viñales disclosed post-race that he had encountered a clutch issue during the morning warm-up, which caused concern for his Aprilia team and compelled him to embark on a recovery mission during the race.
Despite the mechanical setback, Viñales displayed resilience and determination, navigating through the challenges posed by his rivals and the technical glitch to claim victory. He recounted the incident at Turn 1 involving contact with Pecco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin, acknowledging it as a racing incident but maintaining his focus on the race ahead.
Reflecting on his triumph, Viñales expressed pride in achieving a significant milestone by becoming the first competitor in the modern MotoGP era to win races with three different manufacturers.
This accomplishment places him in elite company, with only four other riders in the history of MotoGP having achieved a similar feat over the past 75 years. Viñales emphasized the significance of this achievement, particularly considering Aprilia’s limited prior success before his arrival in late 2021.
For Viñales, achieving success with Aprilia holds special significance, considering the team’s journey and recent milestones. He expressed gratitude towards his predecessor, Aleix Espargaro, for laying a foundation of success with the team before his departure.
Viñales highlighted the contrast between joining a team already accustomed to winning and the challenge of elevating a relatively new contender to the top tier of competition. Despite the obstacles, Viñales remains optimistic and appreciative of the opportunity to contribute to Aprilia’s legacy.
Maverick Viñales’ victory at the Circuit of the Americas marks a significant milestone in his career and in the history of MotoGP. Overcoming technical issues and fierce competition, he showcased his skill and determination, cementing his status as one of the sport’s elite riders. His success with Aprilia not only adds to his personal accolades but also underscores the team’s progress and potential in the competitive landscape of MotoGP.
