Fabio Quartararo remembers that he is the MotoGP champion in Portimao

"I've enjoyed it a lot," exclaimed

at the end of the race in Austin, 15 days ago, and the affirmation, so happy, scared his followers: Has he accommodated himself?

Has he resigned?

That day the reigning MotoGP champion finished seventh and a reigning MotoGP champion cannot "enjoy much" if he finishes seventh.

As he did two years ago, the Frenchman seemed held back by his own thoughts, whatever they were.

Still in the hangover of the success of his life and in negotiations with several brands for the next year, Quartararo was blurred.

But this Sunday, back in Europe, he was reunited.

And even he went further.

In a circuit to his liking, Portimao, he dominated as champion and took the lead in the World Championship.

His victory, the first of the year, had hardly any history: only

came out better than him, but he overtook him on the second lap and, from there, to the checkered flag.

On multiple occasions Quartararo had said that his renewal by Yamaha was to celebrate in the first continental races, Portimao and Jerez, and now that signature seems closer.

Like the rider himself, the Japanese bike had many doubts this season, slower than any, but it is still competitive when the top speed is not so decisive.

If Quartararo and Yamaha meet again - with a contract in between - and the Frenchman shakes off the pressure of being the benchmark, his second MotoGP title is the most likely option.

Because behind him, an opponent up to the task remains unnoticed.

At the end of last year he was squeezed by Francesco 'Pecco' Bagnaia, but the Italian is totally lost due to the continuous mechanical changes of Ducati.

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