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The news of the week is undoubtedly Jorge Lorenzo’s move to Ducati in 2017. A compelling challenge for the Spaniard, called upon to win where Valentino Rossi failed. The Majorcan has decided to make a change. The Doctor did the same in the past, as did Giacomo Agostini before him, leaving MV Agusta for Yamaha.
The Yes has arrived at last.
“It was in the air. Jorge has made evaluations and has decided to start over again with Ducati. I think that there are three motives behind this decision."
Which are?
“The first is surely the fact that the bike is competitive, that can offer him new stimuli. Then there is the relationship with Rossi, which has played a key role. Finally, the money, the 25 million people are talking about is not exactly a trifling amount.”
You experienced the same situation with MV Agusta. What does change mean?
“It means seeking out new ambitions and creating a turning point for your career. In MV I had taken 13 titles, in order, the four-stroke engine had to deal with the new two-stroke which was particularly attractive to me. These were the main reasons, aside from the fact that I had a team-mate who I didn't really get along with."
What will change in Lorenzo now he’s signed?
“I’m sure he’ll have the same hunger to win that we all know. For sure he'll be calmer, also because this new contract will be a morale boost."
Rossi will stay with Yamaha, Lorenzo will go. Is there a winner?
“I don’t think so. Each one has his own path to follow. Both want the title and I’m sure they’ll entertain us.”
How much of a bearing do you think Dall’Igna had Stoner on Jorge’s decision?
“I think that Gigi played an important role in the negotiations, considering they have known each other for so long. I don’t know if he’s spoken with Casey or not, but it’s marginal I think”.
Will Lorenzo’s arrival in Ducati mean added pressure for the Andreas?
“They were already under pressure. Both Dovizioso and Iannone are mature guys, aware that they have an important role in the team. It’s not an easy situation, that’s for sure, but at the same time it spurs you on to do your best.”
If you were Lorenzo who would you want as a team-mate?
“I wouldn’t know, the team will decide, taking Jorge’s opinion into consideration too of course”.
Now they head to Jerez, with Marquez leading. Is he the favourite for the title or is it too early to say?
“I’m sure that the bike to beat is the Yamaha. Marquez is making the difference on a Honda that sees Pedrosa further back. He's leading yes, but in Spain Vale and Jorge have always proved to be fast, and will be again this time. Let's not forget the Ducatis either, the European rounds might cause them difficult but they know how to surprise us."
Rossi has half the points he had in 2015. How worrying is this fact?
“Not very. I say this because it will be a balanced championship, where the gaps between the leading riders are contained. Valentino crashed at Auston, but he’s a rider who rarely makes a mistake.”
There’s a lot of talk about Michelin this year. What are your thoughts?
“It’s a prestigious manufacturer that's been away for some time. Unfortunately these problems arise, just as they do with engines, but of course it's better if they don't.”
