Vinales puts Marquez in the shade on final day of MotoGP testing

SEPANG: Yamaha’s Maverick Vinales (pic) outshone reigning world MotoGP champion Marc Marquez to clock the fastest time on the third and final day of testing at the Sepang International Circuit.

Spaniard Vinales completed 72 laps yesterday, clocking his fastest time of 1:59.368 in Lap 40 yesterday.

Repsol Honda’s Marquez, who struggled in the first two days of testing, finally managed to clock a good time of 1:59.506. He even did the most laps – 85 – compared to the other riders.

Third quickest was Ducati’s Andrea Dovizioso, who clocked 1:59.553.

Despite a brief shower in the afternoon, the final day of testing proved to be productive one as some of the riders managed to clock some good times.

Vinales was delighted with his efforts.

What’s up?: Movistar Yamaha rider Valentino Rossi turns to look at French rider Johann Zarco of team Monster Yamaha during the third and final day of official MotoGP testing at the Sepang International Circuit yesterday. — S.S. KANESAN / The Star 

“I feel really good. The bike improved a lot. Every time we go to the track, we make one step. That's why I am happy,” said Vinales. “The lap times were quite close and I wanted to do as well as I can. I can still improve.

“This week, we worked really well in testing. We didn't focus so much on one lap, we focused more on the good lap time for four, five laps. I can say that we did a good job and we bring a good package to Australia,” said Vinales, referring to their next official test at Phillip Island, Australia, from Feb 15-17.

Vinales’ team-mate Valentino Rossi also did well, clocking 1:59.589 to be fifth fastest.

Ducati test rider Casey Stoner, who clocked the fastest time on day one, was back on track yesterday but could only manage seventh in 1:59.639.

The first race of the season – the Qatar Grand Prix – will be held at the Losail Circuit on March 26.

-thestar online.