New Leadership Marks a Fresh Start for Yamaha
Paolo Pavesio, the newly appointed chief of Yamaha Factory Racing, has set clear and measured goals for the team. Taking over the helm at the start of the year, Pavesio is keen to lead Yamaha back to its former glory. His immediate aim is to see the team consistently securing top five finishes by mid-2025. This ambition, while ambitious, is grounded in the team’s performance during the pre-season testing at Sepang, where star rider Fabio Quartararo finished a strong third. Pavesio’s cautious yet optimistic approach reflects a balanced understanding of the current landscape and the need for realistic targets.
Steady Progress and Realistic Expectations
Despite the encouraging results, Pavesio is acutely aware that the competition isn’t standing still. The gap between Yamaha and the leading teams is narrowing, but it’s a challenge that requires continuous improvement. "We have the objective of reducing the gap that separates us from those at the top," Pavesio stated. "We are reducing it, and that can be seen on the stopwatch. But the others are not standing still." He emphasizes the importance of focusing on incremental gains rather than setting unattainable goals. "Will we win the title in 2025? Surely not. It would be stupid to say that, because if you set an unattainable goal, you then generate frustration," Pavesio explained. Instead, the team is focusing on consistent performance and steady progress, aiming to establish themselves firmly in the top five by the middle of the 2025 season.
The Role of Collaboration and Team Dynamics
Pavesio attributes much of the team’s recent success to the leadership of MotoGP project leader Takahiro Sumihe. "Sumihe is the great driving force behind this change in dynamics and mentality," he said. Moreover, the partnership with Pramac, a new satellite team, has been instrumental in fostering a collaborative environment. "Pramac have made it very easy for me," Pavesio added, highlighting the positive start to their collaboration during the Sepang test. This collaborative spirit and the integration of diverse talents are key to Yamaha’s strategy moving forward. Pavesio’s role is to ensure that all the pieces fit together, leveraging the strengths of each team member to achieve a unified and effective approach.
The Transition and Future Vision
The appointment of Paolo Pavesio as the new managing director of Yamaha Motor Racing represents a significant shift for the team. Lin Jarvis, who served as the director of Yamaha’s racing division for 26 years, is stepping down at the end of 2024. Pavesio, a veteran of Yamaha Europe, was chosen to lead the charge, bringing a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience. When he received the offer from Toyoshi Nishida, Yamaha’s executive director in racing, Pavesio was well aware of the company’s plans to ramp up its efforts in MotoGP. "When I accepted this position I already knew that Yamaha wanted to put one more gear in MotoGP," Pavesio explained. "What attracted me most was the desire to unite people with diverse cultures." His approach is to create a cohesive and dynamic team environment that can effectively tackle the challenges ahead.
Challenges and Opportunities
The upcoming second pre-season test at Buriram presents a different set of challenges. Unlike the high-grip conditions at Sepang, the Buriram track offers much less traction, making it a more reliable indicator of true performance. Pavesio and his team will use this test to refine their approach and identify areas for improvement. The key will be to maintain the momentum gained during the Sepang test while adapting to the unique demands of the Buriram circuit. "The key will be to know to what extent we will be able to be better than them, to reduce that gap as quickly as possible," Pavesio said. This test will provide valuable insights into the team’s readiness for the upcoming season and help in setting realistic goals for the year ahead.
A Vision for the Future
Pavesio’s vision for Yamaha is one of continuous improvement and sustainable success. He is committed to building a team that can consistently challenge for top positions and, in the long term, compete for titles. The first step in this journey is to beat the current midfield teams like Aprilia and KTM. "The first thing we have to do is beat Aprilia and KTM," Pavesio emphasized. By focusing on these intermediate goals, the team can build the confidence and momentum needed to achieve greater success. Pavesio’s leadership, combined with the talent and dedication of his team, positions Yamaha for a bright and competitive future in the world of MotoGP.
