Maverick Vinales has apologised to his Yamaha team for repeatedly revving his engine on the limiter during last weekend’s Styrian Grand Prix, explaining that “everything was about frustration” over how his race had crumbled after the restart following the red flag.
It comes two days after Yamaha withdrew the Spaniard from this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix because of his actions in Styria. Onboard footage from Vinales’ bike showed him over-revving numerous times in the last few laps of the race, including twice in the pitlane on the final lap.
Such actions could have caused Vinales’ engine to blow, resulting in an oil spill on track that would have endangered both himself and his fellow riders, something Yamaha made clear in a public statement released to explain Vinales’ withdrawal.
A decision has yet to be made on whether the Spaniard will ride for Yamaha at the British Grand Prix in two weeks’ time, with Yamaha stating that “decisions regarding the future races will be taken after a more detailed analysis of the situation and further discussions between Yamaha and the rider.”
Whether Vinales’ apology will influence their decision remains to be seen, with reports already surfacing that British rider Cal Crutchlow, Yamaha test rider for this season and currently filling in for the injured Franco Morbidelli at the Petronas Yamaha team, could replace the Spaniard at Silverstone.
Vinales is currently sixth in the championship standings on 95 points, 77 points behind teammate and current championship leader Fabio Quartararo.
Featured image by Box Repsol – Copy of RD6_Catalunya_Marc_2021-08652, CC BY 2.0; no changes made.
