Frenchman Alexis Masbou takes stock of his situation between Spielberg and Brno.
Now without handlebars, the Albigensian, winner of the Czech Republic Grand Prix in 2014 and the Qatar Grand Prix in 2015, is evaluating all the opportunities that present themselves both to finish the current season and to prepare for the 2017 season. Even if Masbou's choice is primarily towards the Grands Prix, he does not rule out a move to World Supersport or Endurance.
Alexis, what happened before the end of the summer break?
“I had been with this team, formerly Racing Team Germany, for over a year and a half. We started well in Qatar and then during the races that followed. It became difficult as the season progressed with both human and financial problems. »
“During the offseason, several staff members were replaced and we changed equipment. I had a lot of hope in this project on a Peugeot. Unfortunately, we experienced more financial problems at the start of the season which prevented us from having peace of mind to operate this bike. At the French Grand Prix, the team thought about stopping. »
The team found a buyer during the German Grand Prix, why such a sudden breakup?
“The buyer came to meet us during the Catalan GP before buying the team during the German Grand Prix. We then talked to try to find common ground. We didn't succeed. We wanted everyone on the team to feel comfortable and so that we could sustain this project. They then decided to fire me. »
“In the end, staying to play at the back of the pack interested neither them nor me. I know my level and given my results last year, this start to the season has proven to be more than difficult. This is not what I expected from this project.
Today, what is your situation?
“Today, I am on foot. I have to find something to bounce back both now and for next season. I have been to Austria and will go to the Czech Republic to explore the possibilities that arise. My future is still unclear. If I had a choice to make, it would be the Moto2 World Championship. If this Championship does not correspond to my idea of a future in Grand Prix, I would move towards World Supersport and the World Endurance Championship. »
You run a flying school (Alexis Masbou Experience), have you thought about stopping everything?
“I actually thought about it, but several high-ranking people in the paddock reassured me about my potential in Austria. Unfortunately, I can no longer continue in Moto3 due to my age and the teams who know my value can no longer bet on me. In Moto2, I have positive feedback. I simply don't want to take any more financial risks and I have to evaluate all the possibilities. »
What is your program after Brno?
“After this Czech Republic Grand Prix, I will go to the Bol d’Or and then to the WorldSBK round at Magny-Cours to see what opportunities are available. »
