Carlo Pernat looks ahead to the 2018 season, which will prove interesting on many fronts, particularly the riders' market.
All of the big names will be on the table so there are sure to be some plot twists. So basically the perfect scenario for a manager like Pernat.
“It will be a cracking market with so many contracts up for renewal, real hunting ground - analyses Carlo - The key piece will be Marquez, who like all champions will want to win with another manufacturer, otherwise he'll consider it unfinished business. I'm not saying he's obliged to change, but he'll definitely think about it, though to do so won't be easy considering he's with Honda”.
Where might Marc go?
“Everyone's thinking KTM, if the bike is working well he might get one of those offers you can't refuse - he muses - KTM has done well across all categories but we'll see what happens in the future. Of course, if Marquez is the loose cannon, it will create a chain reaction, like when Lorenzo left Yamaha for Ducati. There will be some big changes and a hunt for the top riders, Pedrosa might also be on the market and two possible empty seats in Honda would be very much in demand”.
Many are asking whether Rossi will continue to race after next year or whether he'll leave MotoGP.
“I'm sure that Valentino has already signed for 2019 - states Pernat - Yamaha is right to do so because he's always among the frontrunners. Also, Valentino is really scared about stopping and will only do so what he really cannot continue, but he's so well-trained physically and youthful mentally that he will continue. I think he'll end his career with Yamaha, then he'll have a future with VR46 in MotoGP”.
These are the two biggest fish on the market, but as always the young talents are champing at the bit for a place. Pernat touches on some of the Italian talents who stand a good chance of making it.
“The two best riders we have with an eye to MotoGP are Fenati and Bastianini. Maybe Bagnaia too, he's very strong but I need time to evaluate him”.
And looking outside of the Italian contingent?
“I'd say Mir who's proved to be the complete package, both mentally and as a rider. He's one everybody will want - he says - Then Alex Marquez. I don't see anyone also in Moto2 right now, I prefer to consider Moto3, otherwise I'd be hard pushed to choose”.