He was considered the Anti-Marquez two years ago, now Andrea Dovizioso lives a sort of second life on the Yamaha. The rider from Forlì is starting over from the Sepang tests riding an M1, which can’t be compared with last season’s bike.
Andrea is really curious but, above all, he knows he shouldn’t rush things and should instead enjoy what’s to come, because his challenge is now another.
"The one-year break allowed me to wind down, reflect, and start seeing things from another point of view, as well,” Andrea began. “I honestly don’t feel the passing of time, and I consider this a positive thing. At the same time, like Valentino had said, ‘when you stop, things change and. to be in this situation. you have to go beyond your limits’. But I’m calm, serene, and relaxed."
So no putting pressure on yourself.
“I'm happy to be back in Malaysia, and I'm leaving without a goal, since I don't know what that could be. The Sepang tests will certainly give us an idea of what the numbers on the field will be, as well as our potential.”
Speaking of pressure, Andrea gets pressed about Stoner's recent interview regarding his anxiety attacks.
“I haven't read it. I just heard a few rumors about it. What can I say. What a rider feels, only he knows. I’m not surprised, since so many sportsmen throughout history have experienced various kinds of stress after winning. Managing the pressure as a winner, year after year, is definitely ever more complicated. In fact, there are many young cross riders who retire before the age of thirty."
As if that weren’t enough, the social media networks pile it on.
“At this time in my life, managing the pressure isn’t difficult, since I try to pay little attention to what people say, think, and write. To date, everyone says what they think thanks to social media, but I try not to pay much attention to it. I think this is the best strategy for me.”