During the 2025 Indonesian MotoGP practice sessions, riders and fans faced unforeseen difficulties as unpredictable tyre performance caused widespread complications. Taking place at the Mandalika circuit, known for its scenic but challenging layout, the sessions revealed surprising tyre irregularities that significantly affected rider control and pace.
Fabio Quartararo, the Monster Energy Yamaha rider, singled out the tyres as the main issue disrupting the flow of the practice runs. Despite the track’s often tricky conditions caused by dirt and debris, the grip level initially felt acceptable; however, the tyres themselves did not respond consistently.
The tyre reacts in a way that is unpredictable,
Quartararo said, highlighting the unusual behaviour many competitors encountered during the sessions.
Quartararo Highlights Erratic Tyre Behaviour Affecting Performance
Quartararo expressed clear frustration over his slower pace, attributing it to the erratic response of the rear tyre, especially the hard compound designed for durability in hot conditions like those found in Thailand and Austria. He emphasized the disconnect riders felt with their bikes due to this instability.
I think that the grip is good but just the tyre reacts in a way that is unpredictable,
Quartararo commented, expressing the tense mood permeating the paddock as teams struggled to adjust.
The Yamaha rider further described how the hard carcass of the tyre was the source of confusion that also troubled riders during the previous season.
It didn’t feel great, and I think it’s the feeling of many other riders that rode today,
he added, reflecting a collective difficulty experienced on the circuit.
Yamaha Riders Gain Unexpected Edge Over Ducati in Practice
The practice sessions also highlighted a surprising disparity between Yamaha and Ducati’s performances. While Quartararo, along with teammates Alex Rins and Miguel Oliveira, seemed to perform strongly, Ducati struggled considerably. Four out of six Ducati riders, including World Champion Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia, failed to qualify for the important Q2 session.
This scenario was especially notable given Ducati’s recent dominance in MotoGP, making Yamaha’s relative success unexpected. Quartararo pointed out the unusual nature of the situation.
For the first time, they are not there, and it’s not for one time they’re suffering,
he observed, signaling an uncommon shift in competitive dynamics.
Tyre Issues Impacting Both Brands Rather Than Machine Differences
Despite Ducati’s difficulties, Quartararo clarified that the faults did not stem from the motorcycles themselves. Instead, the erratic tyre behaviour played a central role independent of the bike brand.
I think this is what happened: some riders feel more than others, but I don’t think there’s a specific bike that is suffering more or less,
he explained, providing insight into the widespread nature of the problem.
Implications for Upcoming Indonesian MotoGP Race and Championship Outlook
The tyre chaos during practice sessions at Mandalika has injected significant uncertainty into the Indonesian MotoGP weekend, raising intense anticipation for the race ahead. This unpredictability forces all teams to reevaluate their strategies, with the MotoGP community keen to observe how Quartararo and his Yamaha teammates will leverage their unexpected momentum against Ducati’s seasoned squadron.
As the championship chase intensifies, the Mandalika circuit’s tyre challenges may well shape race outcomes and influence rider confidence moving forward, making the 2025 Indonesian MotoGP one of the most closely-watched events this season.
