The MotoGP returns to Brazil, and it does so with a star ambassador: Diogo Moreira. Having a native rider is a major draw for the Grand Prix, but it’s also a huge responsibility for him. In just his second race of his debut season in the premier class, all eyes will be on him. The LCR team rider spoke about this in an interview conducted by his sponsor, Estrella Galicia, which you can also watch in the video above.
Diogo began by talking about his first GP, in Buriram.
"Above all, I'd say it was very different," he explained. "After all, the move from the Moto2 to the MotoGP is a huge leap. During the weekend, I now have a lot more to do... more events, interviews. The weekend felt very short to me. The MotoGP is the premier class, so everything revolves around it and everything happens much faster. Honestly, I'm very happy. I'd say it was a positive weekend. There's no pressure this year so, for now, I'm heading in the right direction."
You had to move to Spain at a very young age to pursue your dream of becoming a MotoGP rider. Do you think you had to sacrifice anything to achieve that goal?
"I put a lot of things aside to try to make my lifelong dream come true. It's always been my dream, so leaving everything behind—my family, my friends, and my life in Brazil—to come to Europe, was a choice I made willingly. When you're chasing such a big dream, everything seems easier. In the end, I'd say it worked out pretty well."
In Thailand, not only did you finish both races, but you also scored your first points. Did you expect that?
"After so many days of testing in Malaysia and Thailand, I couldn't wait for tthe race weekend to arrive. What struck me most is that, from Friday to Sunday, everyone goes full throttle. They're the fastest riders in the world, so they already have everything under control... the bike, the track. The goal was to avoid falls and keep putting in laps on the bike. Sunday’' race helped me a lot, following the other riders, in understanding the direction we need to go in much better. I crossed the finish line very happy, and so was the team. So, overall it was all very positive."
The MotoGP is returning to your home country with the Estrella Galicia 0,0 Brazilian Grand Prix. What does it mean to race in front of your home crowd as the Grand Prix's main ambassador?
"For several months now, this event has been the talk of the town in Brazil. I've always dreamed of racing there in the MotoGP, and I think all the Brazilian fans are really excited, too. It's sold out. There are no tickets left for the weekend. We'll see how it goes. It's only the second race of the year. I still need to get to know the bike and the category, but I think we can do a great job."
What are your expectations for your first season in the MotoGP?
"This time, I have to take it easy. I have the whole season to keep learning and to enjoy this bike. The goal is to finish as Rookie of the Year. I achieved it in the Moto3 and Moto2, so the MotoGP is the only one still missing. Everything else will come with hours of hard work."