Severe Fuel Consumption Issues Compromised Quartararo in Japan

Pulse Sports Team 12:45 - 06 October 2026

Yamaha lead rider Fabio Quartararo has revealed that his Japanese Grand Prix was severely compromised by the need to save fuel, adding that this is far from an isolated issue for the Japanese outfit.

The 2021 MotoGP World Champion crossed the line in 12th place at the manufacturer's home circuit—matching his starting grid position. While it proved to be a standard result in what has been a challenging season, with Quartararo once again finishing as the top Iwata bike, the Frenchman admitted he had the pace for significantly better had he not been forced into severe fuel management throughout the race.

"It was extremely difficult because from lap seven I had a fuel issue, so it didn't go the best way," Quartararo explained. "I could have ridden much faster, but unfortunately, I had to back off the throttle heavily. Between Turns 2 and 3 I was only at 70% throttle, 70% on the back straight, and 70% on the main straight. The pace was there, but unfortunately, we faced this problem. I'm satisfied with my riding, and I think that's the most important thing.

"No, it's not unusual. I don't know if the team expected lower consumption, but I definitely didn't expect to struggle like that, especially early on when I was in the slipstream behind other bikes. It happened far too early. Even in their tow, I had to roll off the throttle, and when I pulled out to get clean air, it was even worse. Unfortunately, that's racing.

"Yes, we lack top speed and at the same time our fuel consumption is too high. It's never easy to judge if you'll make it to the finish. There are green, yellow, and red lights on the dashboard, and mine was flashing red almost from the start. It turned off briefly when things improved, but as soon as I pushed slightly harder, it flashed red again. Despite everything, I think I finished in the expected position," Quartararo added.