Maverick Viñales, riding for Tech3 KTM, concluded the Grand Prix of Japan without scoring any points, continuing his difficult run on the MotoGP circuit. The Spanish rider has been hampered by a persistent shoulder injury, which significantly affected his ability to deliver strong performances during the event at Motegi.
With a focus on managing his recovery rather than pushing for results, Viñales entered the race weekend with tempered expectations. Starting from 21st on the grid, he showed resilience by improving his standing to finish 16th in both the Sprint Race and the main race on Sunday, demonstrating determination despite ongoing physical difficulties.
Enduring Pain and Perseverance on a Demanding Circuit
Viñales shared candid insights on his experience, highlighting the strain the Motegi track placed on his injured shoulder.
It was tough, a very demanding circuit for my shoulder, but I managed to hold on for half the race. There was a dip in my performance, but I managed to regain some momentum. Nevertheless, there’s still a lot of work ahead.
He also reflected on the physical toll endured during the closing laps:
My shoulder was hurting. With six laps to go, I gritted my teeth and pushed a bit harder. But the reality is, there’s a mountain of work left to do.
Preparing for Upcoming Races While Managing Physical and Technical Setbacks
Looking forward, Viñales anticipates a challenging stretch, beginning with the Indonesian Grand Prix. Recovery remains a priority amid a packed schedule, including events at Phillip Island and Portugal. He emphasized the crucial balance of rest and rehabilitation:
I need to rest and undergo treatment; maybe I’ll even hit the weights on Wednesday if my shoulder allows it. Last week after Misano, I was completely wrecked. The week between Mandalika and Phillip Island will be crucial, and then there’s Portugal. But I also need to tackle more issues with the bike,
he explained.
Despite physical limitations, Viñales is committed to improving his KTM bike’s performance by gathering vital data on-track. He stated,
This morning I clocked a 1:44. If I can do it once, I know I can do it again. There’s still a lot of work to be done with the bike.
Viñales’ Determination Remains Unshaken Amid a Testing Season
As the MotoGP season progresses, Maverick Viñales continues to confront both injury struggles and technical hurdles with a fighter’s mentality. His unwavering dedication underscores his resolve to bounce back stronger. The upcoming races will be critical in assessing his recovery and ability to compete at a higher level, making his performance in Indonesia and beyond a key storyline for fans and competitors alike.
