Moto3: Canny McPhee learning from McWill

Moto3 ace John McPhee says he’s doing all he can to learn from British Talent Team mentor and former Grand Prix winner Jeremy McPhee – something reflected in Sunday’s Argentine Grand Prix result when he made it two second places from two starts in 2017.

The Scotsman’s race in Argentina was almost a pitch perfect repeat of last time out in Qatar, with only a small mistake on the final lap denying him the chance to challenge winner Joan Mir for the victory, leaving him somewhat feeling somewhat bittersweet about the podium success.

“There was a plan, and it was nice to show that we can be continuously strong at different tracks. I had a few ideas going into the race about how it would pan out, and I knew I had to be in second on the final lap because he was faster on the brakes but I was stronger on corner exit, and I had a plan to get alongside him and block pass him.

“But both of us went in way too deep, braked about 20 metres later than the whole race, and I had to settle for second. If someone had said to me at the start of the season that I’d have had two second positions I’d be delighted, but maybe it’s because I know the potential is there that I’m a bit disappointed. But we know we can win races and It’s only a matter of time.”

But with 16 long races still to go, McPhee is confident that he can be a title contender all season, especially with the help of his new secret weapon McWilliams, who’s proven invaluable so far.

“He’s been a massive help. He’s been spotting on track for me, showing me references I should be looking for and things I should and shouldn’t be doing. The good thing is that he’s not telling me how to ride the bike, just how to ride better or do what I’m already doing better.

I’m going to be pushing to try to have him along at more races, because he’s been so helpful, and thankfully he’s heading to Austin because it’s a track that I’ve never got on that well at. But there are a lot of areas where you can improve and having him there will make a huge difference.”