Maverick Viñales, the rider from Roses at Red Bull KTM Tech3, has officially begun working with Jorge Lorenzo, the five-time world champion, who has stepped away from race commentary to take on the role of performance coach. Their collaboration started this year, with Lorenzo closely observing Viñales’ riding during sessions in Sepang, analyzing the behavior of the KTM RC16 in real time.
The purpose of this partnership is to address Viñales’ long-standing challenge: achieving consistency throughout a full MotoGP season. While Viñales boasts impressive speed and moments of brilliance, maintaining momentum over multiple races has been elusive. Lorenzo’s coaching focuses on three main areas—physical conditioning, mental strength, and technical refinement—to help Viñales convert his talent into reliable performance.
Transforming Training by Embracing Uncomfortable Conditions
This winter, Viñales adopted a radically new approach to preparation by deliberately exposing himself to riding conditions that previously unsettled him. He has chosen to spend more time training in adverse environments such as rain and low-grip tracks, where instability challenges a rider’s confidence and control. This shift is designed to strengthen Viñales’ ability to handle difficult scenarios and improve his overall adaptability.
« If I want something to change, I have to act differently. And this year, I did something very different. I’m mainly riding in the worst conditions, something I used to avoid. I’ve improved in these difficult conditions. » – Maverick Viñales, rider
The strategy aims to ensure Viñales is race-ready from the moment pre-season testing begins, eliminating the need for lengthy adaptation periods. It also enables him to participate more effectively in guiding the KTM’s technical development.
Low-Speed Training on 600cc Bikes Sharpens Technical Control
One of the most unusual aspects of Viñales’ new regimen involves training on 600cc motorcycles, specifically on small circuits and even karting tracks. This practice focuses on mastering bike control at low speeds, where grip and slide management require exceptional precision and finesse.
« I think there’s nothing more difficult than riding a 600cc at 20 or 10 km/h. It’s very complicated; these are motorcycles made for speed, and when you start working on the technique, especially at low speeds, we feel like we’ve forgotten how to fly. » – Jorge Lorenzo, performance coach
Such exercises force the rider out of automatic reactions and expand his technical abilities. Developing more nuanced throttle, braking, and sliding control is essential for maximizing the performance of the KTM RC16, especially its rear wheel grip, which plays a pivotal role in the bike’s behavior on track.
Refining Style Without Overhauling It Completely
Viñales acknowledges that altering his riding style in wholesale fashion is nearly impossible, given that his habits have become deeply ingrained. However, he welcomes advice on subtle technical adjustments supported by Lorenzo’s vast racing experience.
« Honestly, I hope to improve my technique on the motorcycle. Changing my driving style is difficult Because everything has become automatic for me, but receiving advice… on throttle management, braking, or even Jorge’s experience, the experience of a long-time champion, I think that’s really the key to progressing » – Maverick Viñales, rider
The two share similar traits, including fluid cornering, speed through bends, and clean racing lines. Viñales also reflects on how he quickly adapted when joining Yamaha, as Lorenzo’s riding style had shaped the bike he inherited.
« He understands motorcycles very well and also knows how to anticipate my needs. We’ve done a lot of testing here with road bikes, and I think it has excellent ideas to improve my riding style » – Maverick Viñales, rider
With detailed planning aimed at immediate impact, Viñales hopes to be fully prepared for the start of pre-season testing. This readiness will allow him to influence bike development early and enter the initial races of the year with a stronger chance of competing at the front.
A New Chapter for Viñales and KTM Tech3
The formation of this partnership sends a strong message about Viñales’ ambitions. No longer content with being a rider defined by “what ifs,” he is striving to convert his potential into consistent race results. Jorge Lorenzo’s involvement as performance coach is central to this transformation and reflects a more structured and well-supported approach than in previous seasons.
While it remains uncertain if this strategy can propel Viñales to genuine title contention, the evidence of a focused, comprehensive program hints at a promising new phase in his career. For KTM Tech3, this alliance may strengthen their competitive edge and enhance Viñales’ ability to capitalize on his talent within the MotoGP field.
