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SBK, Melandri: In 2017 bet on me and Lorenzo

Marco: "Neither Jorge nor I will have problems. In SBK I am at the centre of the project"

Melandri: In 2017 bet on me and Lorenzo

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Motocross has always been one of his greatest passions and it is precisely for this reason that he did not want to miss the Motocross of Nations round that is back in Maggiora exactly 30 years after the last edition. Marco Melandri is also among the guests at Mottaccio del Balmone. During the day today, the rider from Ravenna, along with Botturi and Checa, took part in the presentation of the new offroad helmet, X-lite X-502, available in carbon and fibre versions. Marco does not want to miss out on offroad, although his thoughts have already turned toward the next tests with Ducati.

From the asphalt to the ground is a quick step.

“I would say so. Maggiora is a truly spectacular track, one of a kind. As many know, I am very fond of motocross. I train and I am able to have fun with my friends. Unfortunately, lately I have had to give it up since I have had a problem with tendinitis in my right hand.”

Last March at Maggiora you had hoped to return to Superbike. Your dream came true

“That’s true. An unexpected opportunity, but I was always realistic, because the factory derivatives are my true dimension. I am charged up and well aware of my qualities to take on this new adventure.”

It is well known that the Panigale is a particularly demanding bike.

“And yet I was fine with it. In fact, I don’t think I have had certain sensations getting on a bike for the first time. Unfortunately, the bike is always presented with “terrorism”, but I do not think that is the actual reality.

In a month you will be back on the track.

“We have a test scheduled for Valencia at the end of October and then in November I will be at Jerez and Pirro will be there too.”

Can we define Ducati as your last chance?

Ducati is the chance. I am at the centre of the project here and I have everything that I need to demonstrate the true potential. In the Misano tests I had good sensations straight away and now I will try to improve to be ready when next season starts.”

Could Melandri on a Ducati be the Italian comeback in factory derivatives?

“I will do everything I can to make this dream come true. Next season will definitely be one of the most heated ever. Besides the Kawasakis ridden by Rea and Sykes, Bradl will also be there and Laverty will be back. Plus, Hayden will be even stronger.”

How important is it to have a manager like Vergani by your side?

I think it was the best choice. He has given me a lot over the years and I think everyone’s eyes are on him. I tried to repay his trust on the track.”

Between you and Lorenzo, who will have more difficulty on the Ducati?

“Good question. I hope neither of us (he smiles).”

Do you think this Championship season is already locked up?

“Not yet. Rea certainly took a weighty win in Race 2 at the Lausitzring. Magny-Cours, with the unknown factor of the weather could become an advantage for him, but Sykes will not give up down to the end.”

Translated by Jonathan Blosser
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