It’s safe to say everyone was in high spirits on Thursday at the Animoca Brands Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix. The paddock is thrilled to be back at Phillip Island and this time around feels a little extra special, with plenty on the line this weekend – something that was of course spoken about in depth ahead of track action getting underway.
Here’s some of the topics you might have missed on Thursday:
WATCH: “We made a mistake” – Quartararo breaks media silence
The Frenchman apologised for skipping press duties in Thailand after a disappointing display in the wet, but feels he can handle the rain in Australia
WATCH: Quartararo’s Crew Chief accepts blame for crucial mistake
Diego Gubellini is hoping to atone for his error, and is confident of bouncing back in Australia after his rider recorded a Buriram blank
WATCH: Marc Marquez’s words to Guevara – “Enjoy this moment”
Having done it all, the eight-time World Champion offered some sage advice to the Moto3™ star, who's on the verge of his first world title
WATCH: Five riders, three races, one goal – “It’s time to attack”
Ahead of the Australian GP, four of the title contenders discussed how they're handling the pressure and what their endgame strategies are
WATCH: Will Miller prioritise home win over Ducati team interests?
The Aussie said he'll avoid doing "anything silly", but if he is in the victory fight, he will without a doubt go for a dream win!
WATCH: Explained – the special aero rule at Phillip Island
MotoGP™ Technical Director Danny Aldridge outlines why the Australian circuit allows teams to make changes to their aero packages
WATCH: Title contenders Press Conference
Four of the five title contenders in Fabio Quartararo, Francesco Bagnaia, Aleix Espargaro and Jack Miller preview the weekend ahead in Australia
WATCH: Fighting fit – Mir set for return after ankle injury
The Suzuki star hasn't raced since the Austrian GP and feels he is ready to compete for the podium at Phillip Island this weekend
WATCH: MotoGP™ Last on the Brakes Podcast – title showdown preview!
It’s a huge three races coming up in the MotoGP™ title chase, with five riders split by 40 points
The Australian GP action gets underway at 09:00 local time (GMT+11) on Friday morning, with the first MotoGP™ session starting at 09:55.