Maverick Vinales says his off-season work with three-time MotoGP champion Jorge Lorenzo has taken his preparation to a new level and helped unlock potential he had not accessed before.
After signing Lorenzo as his performance coach for the 2026 season, Vinales has changed his training approach to focus more on areas he previously avoided. While the 31-year-old rider is known for his natural speed and success in MotoGP, he has struggled to deliver top results consistently, and hopes that working with Lorenzo will be the catalyst for a stronger championship challenge.
During winter training, Vinales completed a broad programme that included everything from riding road bikes at Jerez to doing controlled figure-eight drills and dirt riding in Valencia. These sessions were designed to rebuild his confidence and fitness after a shoulder injury he suffered at the German Grand Prix last season.
Source: Yahoo Sports
Vinales says Lorenzo pushed him into situations where he felt uncomfortable, such as riding in very wet conditions soon after his injury. “There was one time when the track was really wet and it was the first time I rode after my injury,” he said. “I was ready to go home, but Jorge made me stay out. Doing that unlocked a lot of potential.”
Beyond physical conditioning, Vinales highlights how Lorenzo has restructured his entire preparation. Previously, his winter focus was mainly on staying fit and adding general mileage. Under Lorenzo’s guidance, training has become more technical and targeted, with specific areas of riding refined in detail.
Lorenzo will remain closely involved as Vinales moves into the pre-season tests and early races of the 2026 campaign. The goal is to sharpen the Spaniard’s technical skills on the bike, including throttle control, braking and overall riding style. Vinales acknowledges that adjusting his riding techniques will be a challenge, but believes that working with a former world champion will be key to making progress.
Vinales also noted that the partnership has been more productive and enjoyable than he expected. Despite their past as rivals and differing personalities, the two Spaniards have built a strong working relationship this winter.
