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The 2017 Superbike championship started late and closed early for Leandro Mercado, the Argentinian rider who only officially began his season at Aragon, round three. The 2014 Superstock champion missed the opening rounds in Australia and Thailand due to injury, and was forced to miss the final Losail round because of financial problems for team Iodaracing.
But “Tati” always knows to how to look on the bright side: “I had to miss the first four non-European races after having also missed winter testing - explains Leandro- and both the team and bike were new to me - this is why is was a tough season for me. But I've learned a lot - my mechanics have really helped me understand the RSV4, and I was pleased to ride the Aprilia. I want to consider this a positive season, despite having to miss the final Qatar round. 2017 was an important year, because the experience I've gained will be useful next season”.
You'd already competed in Superbike, is the level the same as in previous seasons?
“No, the technical and competitive level are higher now; you need to have every detail sorted in order to be strong, otherwise it's a grind. I had a good season with team Barni in 2015 but this year was more difficult, there are many fast bikes and all the riders are strong and experienced.”
You'll now be riding a Kawasaki…
“Yes, I'll be team Orelac Racing's only rider in Superbike, while Nacho Calero will compete for the team in Supersport. It's a new and interesting project, because we'll be able to use some parts provided by Kawasaki directly. The new technical regulation will probably level the championship and help private teams like mine. It won't be easy to be strong of course but I'm confident. Even though my ZX10R won't be official, I think we can run a good championship and be closer to the factory bikes, thanks to a good technical package”.
Your agreement is for one year and at the end of 2018 the factory riders' contracts are up for renewal... might the Kawasaki path open important doors for you?
“After several seasons with private teams, I'd like to be part of a factory squad. First I have to be fast in 2018, very fast, because in 2019 I'd like to race with a factory bike. Next season will be really important for me and my career”.
In the meantime, work continues in Villicum, where a new SBK track is coming together…
“They are working hard in Argentina to complete the works and then the track will be homologated. I hope they call on me as an ambassador, as the only Argentinian in the championship - it would be an honour for me to represent my country at a home track”.
What kind of results are you aiming for in 2018?
“As I've said, it will be a really tough championship. I'll take it step at a time but... I want to try and stay close to the top five, reaching the podium at least once. Many of our rivals will be looking to do the same, I know, but I'll try, that's for sure... It would be a gift for me and for the whole of Argentina”.
