Image: Supplied.

Spaniard Maverick Vinales is confident that useful developments made with his Monster Energy Yamaha YZR-M1 at the Misano test will assist in his challenge for a podium at the Italian venue this weekend.

Vinales is coming off a podium result at the British grand prix, which combined with a positive test last month, as offered the MotoGP contender a strong mindest leading into the 13th round.

“We‘ve had a two-week break again, but we have never stopped working during that time,” said Vinales. “We‘ve been preparing in order to come to Misano in a good physical and mental shape. We are very happy with the positive results of the last races and we have to remain focused to finish the season in a good position in the general classification.

“Being the first Yamaha is my goal, as always. The test in Misano was useful because we tried many things, not only for next year but also for this current season. The San Marino GP is a kind of home GP for Yamaha and we will have many fans supporting us here, so I can’t wait to get back aboard my M1 and fight for the podium, spurred on by the amazing atmosphere.”

Vinales is currently ranked a distant fifth in the MotoGP World Championship standings.