Hello Juan, first of all congratulations for the good results you achieved so far in the 2017 season. How would you rate this first half of the year? Are you happy with what you achieved or do you think it could have gone better?
Thanks. Well, I think we had a great start of the year, we achieved our first podium, for which we really strove, and we learnt a lot for the second half of the season. During the last few races we tried quite a few things and now everything is clearer. Our objective will be to improve our results in the upcoming races.
You got your first ever podium finish after an amazing race in Mugello. How did you feel after crossing the finish line?
It felt great, I fought a lot for that moment, for that feeling, just like my whole family, my team and my Fans Club. It is something special, quite hard to explain, which will be a part of me for the rest of my life.
Throughout your career in Moto3 you have raced for various constructors, such as Honda, Mahindra and KTM. Which one has suited you the best?
I also raced for Kalex. But only with the KTM during two consecutive years. I work very well with the Austrian manufacturer and so far I think that, among all the bikes I have tried, the KTM is the one I like the most.
Do you prefer wet or dry conditions?
I always, just like most of the riders, prefer dry races. You can work in a more normal way and there are less surprises, both positive and negative ones.
Since your debut in the World Championship, you have always raced with #58. Does it have any special meaning to you?
Yes, since 2009 I have used it on my bike because I was an unconditional fan of Marco Simoncelli.
Do you have any pre-race rituals or superstitions?
Not too many, even though I always get on the bike from the right side. However, when I get dressed, the left side comes first.
Apart from racing, do you have any other hobbies?
I really like the sea. Going to the movies, practice other sports: cycling, MTB, swimming, paddle surf, kayaking.
What’s your objective for the second half of the 2017 season?
Our objective will be to improve each and every result generally speaking, always valuing the whole weekend.
Do you see yourself racing in the premier class in the future?
Yes, the truth is it would be a dream come true to be competing in MotoGP. It is something doable, yet I need to work and learn more.
A message for the Romanian fans, please.
Thanks to all the readers for taking the time to go through the interview and especially thanks for your support towards me and MotoGP.
photo credit – rbaracing.com
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