Petronas SRT Yamaha rider Fabio Quartararo admitted that he didn’t feel great on his M1, despite ending the combined free practice sessions second fastest, just 0.057 seconds off the top spot, after the opening day in Misano.

After impressing at the test a few weeks back around the same circuit, the Frenchman wasted little time in cementing his name up the sharp end of the timing sheets, by topping FP1. Whilst Maverick Vinales went fastest in FP2, Quartararo remained second overall.

Despite starring at the sharp end of the field, Quartararo admitted that he didn’t feel great on the opening day.

“For the first time this year, I didn’t have the utmost confidence with the front,” said the 20-year-old.

“It’s also probably the track, since it didn’t have the same grip as during the tests, it wasn’t easy to keep a steady pace. I think that the situation will improve tomorrow, and not being at my best still means having room to improve.”

A lot has been spoken about Quartararo and his pace on the inconsistent Yamaha. Some have suggested that his performances have made all other riders rise their game, when asked about that, Quartararo said: “I think that’s the case for all riders. We always look at the fastest on the same bike.

“I think it’s good to have someone who always pushes you to the limit, it’s also fun, but it would be nice if one of us could win on Sunday. We celebrated only once with Vinales this year.”

Quartararo also jokingly said that he spoke to Valentino Rossi, after the Italian called the Frenchman a nuisance.

“I made him explain the meaning, it’s an honour being a nuisance for Rossi,” he said laughing.