Post-MotoGP life is not easy, when you have to take a step down to move to a less prestigious category. For some, the Superbike World Championship is the next step, for others Moto2. But it is not easy, as proven by the failure of Yonny Hernandez, who moved from the Aspar MotoGP team in 2016 to the AGR Moto2 team in 2017.
Hernandez finished ninth and tenth once in the first nine Grands Prix this year, which saw him replaced by Joe Roberts from Brno. Then the team ceased its activity.
At Avintia, Hector Barbera finished in tenth position in the MotoGP World Championship in 2016, thus ranking among the best independents. This year, on the other hand, was much less favorable, with only twenty-first place at the end of the Aragon Grand Prix. There are no more permanent drivers behind him than Bradley Smith and Sam Lowes.
Hector has only managed to climb into the top 10 once since the start of the year, with ninth place in Catalonia. In qualifying, his best result was sixth place in Barcelona, his only time this year in the top 12 on the grid.
Barbera therefore takes the path of the Moto2 category which he will discover, because before his eight seasons in MotoGP, he came from the 250 cc of which he finished vice-World Champion in 3 on Aprilia.
Next year, Barbera will replace Fabio Quartararo at Sito Pons and will ride a Kalex Moto2. “ This is a new project for me, explains Hector. “ I stayed in the MotoGP category for many years, but I couldn't win. »
“In this category, the bike and the team are very important factors for success. After eight years, I don't understand if it's me, the bike or the team that's the problem. I think I have a good chance of winning in the Moto2 category. »
“I need new motivation. It was difficult because I had a contract with Avintia for next season. But the team boss is my friend, so I have no problem due to the breach of contract. »
“Then I spoke with Sito, who has a very good team. The mechanics and technicians are outstanding. I think this team is ready to win. »
Photos © Avintia
Source: speedweek. com
