Maverick Vinales heads to Le Mans with a sense of anticipation: “This year feels particularly significant due to the level we’ve achieved and my confidence on the RS-GP24.”
Maverick Vinales and Aprilia are determined to bounce back from the disappointing Jerez MotoGP weekend, viewing it as merely a hiccup. As they head to Le Mans, Vinales is confident, believing it to be “one of the tracks where we will be strongest.”
Despite three victories in the four races preceding Jerez, Vinales and teammate Aleix Espargaro struggled, qualifying 11th and 12th due to wet conditions. Vinales briefly challenged for a podium spot in the Sprint race but crashed on damp patches, ultimately finishing ninth in the Grand Prix.
However, during Monday’s test, a fault was discovered with his Sunday bike, which he had switched to after the Sprint fall, and he ended the day in second place.
Le Mans holds special significance for Vinales, who secured his first Grand Prix victory there as a 125cc rider in 2011, followed by Moto3 wins in 2013 and a MotoGP triumph (with Yamaha) in 2017.
“Le Mans is a track where I’ve always felt competitive,” Vinales remarked. “I have a strong belief that this year will be exceptional, given the level we have achieved and how comfortable I feel on the RS-GP24.”
“I believe Le Mans will be one of our strongest circuits. I’m entering with full focus and motivation.
“The ambiance in France is incredible, as is the track itself. I’m eager to witness the support of the Aprilia fans in the stands!”
Vinales currently holds fifth place in the world championship standings, while his teammate Aleix Espargaro has slipped to eighth following his impressive performance in the Qatar Sprint.
Espargaro, who intends to make a decision about his MotoGP future in the upcoming rounds, previously stood on the podium at Le Mans for Aprilia in 2022.
“I’m excited to head to Le Mans, a legendary circuit where braking is crucial,” Espargaro expressed. “The weather often poses challenges, making it even more exciting.
“It’s a track I enjoy, where I secured podium finishes two years ago and achieved eighth and fifth places last year. I’m eager to arrive there and start achieving the results we deserve.”
Aprilia remains the only MotoGP factory yet to officially confirm any riders for the 2025 season.
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