MotoGP championship leader Valentino Rossi has admitted he and the Movistar Yamaha team were desperate for answers after winter testing had gone so badly but made the right choice in sticking with the 2017 Yamaha YZR-M1.

Rossi has finished on the podium in all three races so far and leads the title chase by six points from team-mate Maverick Vinales, who crashed out yesterday in Austin.

“Is a big surprise, especially for us as after the test, we were quite desperate. We tried to think, use the old bike and everything but we did the right choice. I think the problem was for me and my team we need more time for understand this bike, the way to ride and the way to set but the bike have something positive, especially at the end of the races,” said Rossi, speaking at the track.

“I am able to push, to be strong. In fact, in Argentina with Cal and here with Dani I can attack. Last year I was always fast at the beginning but after I suffer a lot. Is just three races and for sure will be very hard to remain in this position - especially with Vinales and Marquez as they are always very fast.”