The photo above was taken today, the one below in 2008. At Phillip Island, Hayden and Marquez will share a garage for the first time. Marc remembers that day well when he met Nicky 8 years ago: “It was my first presentation with Repsol and my birthday too. They even had a cake for me. Seeing that photo again is very emotional. Hayden and Pedrosa were my points of reference and I have been able to race with both of them.”
Nicky, would you ever have imagined racing with Marquez on the factory Honda team one day?
“It’s something I never really thought about. I remember that they introduced us that day and they told me he was really fast. In MotoGP things happen that seem crazy. After leaving Valentino at Honda, I never would have expected to see him again in Ducati. Life is full of surprises.”
They were right, Marquez is very fast…
“He earned this title. We knew how fast and aggressive he was, but he showed that he can also be very consistent.”
Did you think you would do another MotoGP race?
“After Aragón I said to myself: that’s enough of doing other things, like the Suzuka 8 Hours or MotoGP. Then the call came, so I had to rethink it: I’ll say enough from next year (he laughs).”
When did you find out about this opportunity?
“I was in Jerez, Sunday night after the SBK race. I received a text while I was sleeping. I opened my eyes and read the words ‘Honda, Phillip Island’. I didn’t understand. I had to read the text twice. Then I tried to get back to sleep because I had the tests the next day (he laughs).”
And you said yes straight away …
“I’m sorry about what happened to Dani, but it is a great opportunity for me. Today I went to the garage and seeing my number on that bike was exciting. I have a long history with Honda and they have always been fair with me. I’m proud to be part of this team.”
What is the goal?
“I didn’t come here just to wear the factory rider shirt. Today my job was to pose for some photos, but tomorrow it will be time to twist the throttle. I expect it to be a little easier than at Aragón.”
What was the biggest problem?
“Understanding the front tyre, but now I have more experience and I hope that the end result will be better too.”
How difficult is it to go from a SBK to a MotoGP bike?
“When you get older it’s not as easy to adapt (he laughs). But when chances like this come along, you have to take them.”