Vale: I was seeing things
Sunday, 29 August 2010 23:04
Valentino: a fourth place finish here at Indianapolis ahead of the San Marino GP at Misano. Perhaps somewhat below his expectations, but he seemed fairly upbeat when talking to Italian TV channel Mediaset after the race.
“It was a positive race. I rode well and we set up the bike the bike in a way that has worked for us in the past. I struggled a bit early on, but then was very strong in the middle part of the race - which is the most important thing - and I am happy that I was able to able to stay up with the leaders. At a certain point I ran out of gas... not the bike but me. I was really suffering in the heat. When I starting having visions of Saint Peter between turns 2 and 3, I thought it was a good idea to back off a little."
It seems like everyone was suffering from the heat.
“I also had an unusual problem, because the bike was putting a lot of heat on me from underneath. My boots were almost melted at the end of the race."
How did the leg and shoulder hold up?
“I'm still missing a little of the strength needed to ride at 100% for the entire race, but we are getting there. I have been concentrating on the leg and shoulder during my workouts, and they aren't really an issue anymore. At this point I need to do some cardiovascular work."
Now we move on to Misano...
“Misano was supposed to be my first race back from the injury; I did well to come back sooner, and I will be in good condition for the race. Misano is a track that I like and a track where the M1 goes well. I hope to see everyone there. We will do our very best."
How is the technical situation with the bike?
“This was an important weekend for us technically: when I first came back, we were following the direction of my teammate. But this was a mistake because I ride the bike differently than he does. Now we are back to our own program, and I feel and can ride better."
The other day you said that the rider market had gotten a bit out of hand...
“The next time I have to sign a contract, I won't discuss it before the last three races of the season. In any case, we (Yamaha, ed) are leading the championship, Lorenzo is going to win the title, Spies is going well, and there is no tension. My team and I are the ones who must improve."
Do you feel closer to being able to beat Lorenzo again?
“Beating Lorenzo? We must be patient and get back to being strong and competitive. I know how to ride and my team knows how to work. The next few races are at tracks where I usually go pretty well. Let's hope the weather is a bit cooler. These last seven races are important for me, for getting me back to form and ready for next season."
Below is the full interview in Italian
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