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If Valentino were a footballer he'd be wearing the number 10 on his shirt, that double figure that he reached at Barcelona having won at the track on ten occasions. A result that Rossi recalls with pleasure: “it was one of the greatest wins, especially because it was a convincing race. It was important after the points lost at Mugello”.
The number 10 seemed cursed for you…
“It was a special feeling. Last year I lost my tenth title at the last minute and the tenth win at Mugello also seemed within reach. It was an important result psychologically speaking, but it's more important to be fast this Sunday".
There's been a two week break, is that a good or bad thing?
“There are pros and cons, I was happy to have an extra week's break because we hadn't rested since March. But I would have preferred just one between Assen and Sachsenring because it's difficult to get back into the rhythm and concentrate. In the end, it doesn't change much, we'll just go to the beach more (he laughs)”.
Now it's time for Assen, where you've also won 9 times…
“Up until 2005, when we raced on the old track, it was a magic place, long and fast, very old school. I still like it now, but it's more normal, even more so now we're not racing on Saturday”.
Is it safe?
“As one of the tracks with the highest average speed, it's dangerous but there is ample run off”.
Tomorrow the Safety Commission will talk about Barcelona, will you go?
“Yes, it's importanto to be there. We need to understand whether we'll be able to race with the layout we've always used. It's not enough to put down gravel on the run off at turn 12, we need to extend the run off ”.
What do you expect in the race?
“First we need to understand which tyres Michelin will bring, but historically the French tyres have always gone well at this track. Then there's the weather, which can change 3 or 4 times during one day”.
Will it be another 3-way fight?
“During this first part of the championship Marquez, Lorenzo and I have had something more than the others. It's a tight battle and the level is high: every detail can make the difference”.
Photo by Fermino Fraternali
