MotoGP 2002

The whole Marlboro Yamaha Team had a difficult start in the new MotoGP-class. Max Biaggi only scored 7 points in the first 3 GP's. The all new Yamaha YZR-M1 was much slower than the Honda RCV. But Max and Yamaha pulled themselves together and the better results came quick. Podiums in Le Mans and Mugello, 4th places in Catalunya and Assen. Yamaha was back, with Biaggi at the lead. The GP's of Germany and Britain showed that Max is still one of the best riders of the pack, he finished 2 times 2nd. Then came the Czech GP at the mythic circuit of Brno, the favourite track of the Roman Emperor. Max scored the hattrick, pole position, new race record and a splendid victory. The Portuguese GP was less impressive, only a sixth place. The MotoGP left Europe for the Nelson Piquet Circuit, in Brazil offcourse. Max scored a 2nd place. In Motegi Biaggi had to retire due to tyreproblems, a dissapointment but Max striked back at Sepang, Malaysia. A stunning victory. Phillip Island followed but it was a difficult weekend with a pover 6th place as result. The final GP in Valencia was very important, the 2nd place in the championship was undecided. Max scored a fantastic pole position and a good 3rd place. Ukawa only finished 5th so Max is the 2002 Vice-World Champion.