Maverick Viñales (Red Bull KTM Tech3) had a rollercoaster weekend at the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar. Stunning the field on Sunday with an impressive second-place finish – beating Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) in the process. However, celebrations ended early after the #12 received a 16-second penalty due to low tyre pressure.

After the penalty was applied, Viñales dropped from second position to P14 in the Grand Prix results. Following this, Viñales would update his fans on social media, starting by explaining how it felt to lead a Grand Prix once again.

"Well guys... it feels great to be back. I feel like we've been on the right track from the start, staying calm and believing in ourselves, and that's showing in our results. I was feeling really good when I was leading the race... I just kept telling myself to keep hitting the marks and maintaining a good rhythm.”

Viñales delivered a strong qualifying performance, finishing Q2 as the top KTM rider and securing an impressive P6 on the grid. However, in the Tissot Sprint, the #12 was unable to show his full potential on Saturday afternoon, dropping to P10 at the chequered flag.

However, Viñales and his team put in the work, and with a strong start on Sunday, his luck seemed to have turned around. Reflecting on the weekend, the #12 shared some of his positive takeaways and hopes to carry this form forward, though he admitted that he must stay ‘patient’.

"I know what I'm capable of, so we just need to keep focused, patient, and keep doing the work. What matters most to me is the performance we've shown. We've been fighting against amazing riders and bikes, but we believe in our project, in KTM, and the work we're doing."

Viñales joined the podium battle on Lap 3, taking advantage of early drama. The #12 worked hard, matching the pace of the front runners before seizing the lead for the first time on Lap 11. Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) would ultimately win the Grand Prix, with Viñales crossing the line in second – P14 with the penalty applied. Despite the penalty, Viñales is still planning on celebrating his achievements.

"It's been a tough start to the year, but I'm getting more comfortable with the bike, and I know my potential. We'll stay calm, stay patient and keep pushing because today wasn't just about the result... it's a sign of what's to come. Despite losing the 2nd position, I feel as though this is a win, and we'll still celebrate like it was. Thanks always for your support."

After an encouraging performance in Qatar, Viñales and the Red Bull KTM Tech3 squad now turn their attention to the Spanish GP. The thrilling weekend in Jerez will be followed by the crucial Jerez Test, where the MotoGP™ grid will be back at work, fine-tuning their machines and chasing every possible advantage. With the season beginning to heat up, don’t miss a moment of the action as we gear up for Round 5 of the season.