The 2024 campaign began with challenges for Yamaha despite securing 2021 world champion Quartararo for another two years. At Jerez, Quartararo managed an unexpected third place in the sprint race but was later penalized to fifth for a tyre pressure rule breach. In the main race, Quartararo struggled from 23rd on the grid to 15th, citing the 2024 Yamaha’s weaknesses in turning and suffering from an arm pump, a recurring issue that impacted his performance.
Quartararo explained his difficulties stemmed from struggling with rear grip and turning, leading to excessive tension and arm strain. He noted a contrast between feeling good on the bike when the arm pump wasn’t an issue and struggling with bike setup, exacerbating physical discomfort. Despite testing adjustments before the race, the situation worsened during the event, reflecting the ongoing challenge of improving bike performance amidst recurring issues.
The recurrence of the arm pump, previously addressed surgically after the 2021 Spanish GP, wasn’t a surprise to Quartararo, who attributed it to the bike’s characteristics, particularly its challenges with turning and rear grip. He emphasized the dynamic relationship between feeling comfortable on the bike and managing physical strain, highlighting how the bike’s performance directly influenced his physical well-being during races.
Quartararo pointed out the specific challenges of Jerez, a circuit that accentuates Yamaha’s weaknesses, particularly in turning and grip. Looking ahead to Le Mans, he expressed hope for improvement due to the circuit’s focus on braking, suggesting a more favorable environment for his riding style and the bike’s current capabilities.
Despite the setbacks, Quartararo’s commitment to overcoming challenges and optimizing bike performance remains evident as he navigates the complexities of the 2024 MotoGP season.