20-year-old MotoGP rookie sensation Fabio Quartararo said he is not feeling the pressure and enjoying his home Grand Prix after ending the opening day of free practice third fastest in Le Mans.

The SRT Petronas Yamaha satellite man topped the morning session before doubling down his pace, ending the first day third on the combined timings, just a tenth behind Marc Marquez on his satellite YZR-M1.

Despite going fastest in the morning, the Frenchman faced some issues, which he had to work through, doing so into the afternoon.

“Today has been a very positive day,” said Quartararo.

“At first it was a bit difficult, because the braking reference in FP1 was somewhat tricky, but that was something that went a little better in FP2. I’m happy overall. We worked on our pace today, and while we still have to improve things, I feel good on the bike and I’m satisfied.

"Tomorrow we will continue working on what will be an important day, and we’ll see what the weather is like.

“I think this track is good for the Yamaha; we saw Viñales go really fast today.

“I’m enjoying my home GP; I don’t feel like I’m under pressure and I’m having fun with the fans.”

It was announced earlier today that one of the marshals volunteering at this weekends French Grand Prix had died due to a heart attack. Quartararo wanted to send his wishes to the family of the marshal.

“I also would like to send all my support to the friends and family of the marshal who passed away today at Le Mans. It has been very sad news for everybody.”