De Diana Tamantini / Corsedimoto.com
Matteo Ferrari was in action on Thursday at Misano. A beautiful emotion, with new security measures. This Sunday will take place the first virtual MotoE race. Interview.
“It’s a great pleasure to get back on the track after all this time spent at home, as well as to see the other drivers. » Matteo Ferrari was one of the boys who completed a few laps on the Misano track, which has just reopened after a total closure. Those present had a first glimpse of some new security measures, necessary given the period, but they were “removed a little rust”, starting to prepare for the 2020 season (when it starts again). Activities on the track, but also virtual: on Sunday the reigning MotoE champion will be among the protagonists of the first online race in the electric category.
What was it like to start racing again in Misano?
“It was really nice to be able to do a few laps on this track again. They just resurfaced the asphalt, a great job since they finished it in record time before the total closure. A great feeling after all this time at home, as was seeing all the drivers on the circuit, even if there were few of us. »
“The first round was very strange. Among other things, I drove a V4 not prepared for the championship, but to say, it had been a year and a half since I had driven a 1. The first question was “But how fast is it going?” » ! Obviously, I got used to it again. On a physical level, I am satisfied: at home, we continued the usual preparation. Then on the track we fell apart, but overall it was a very positive restart and a lot of fun. A first step in preparing for the championship. »
What differences did you find with the previous surface?
“Let’s say the track was a bit dirty, probably also because the track was always closed after the work. Turn after turn it has constantly improved, but in terms of sensations it has always been optimal. They have taken a good step forward, and in my opinion this year it will be much stronger and we will have several records in all categories. Let's say we have to regain confidence with racing bikes, but the first sensations have been good. »
For the first time, youou have had to deal with new security measures.
“Seeing some drivers on the circuit, with masks, with devices to clean their hands… It’s clearly a different reality compared to before, but we can still experience the same passion. For races it will be even simpler: checks will be carried out before the weekends, so you know that not everyone who is inside the paddock is infected with the virus. It will definitely be easier to manage, but we will have to get used to these differences. In this world, people are used to going to other people's boxes, being with friends, asking for help... Currently, it is strange to have to stay at a distance, but apprehension must also a little pass. In my opinion, next year we will be back to normal, so let's grit our teeth for this season and think positive. »
When do you think the season will start?
“Difficult to say at the moment. I remain faithful to what Ezpeleta said a short time ago, that in July we could start again. We are still waiting for the official announcement, but in my opinion, the dates set so far are achievable. It might not be quite that, but the end of July/beginning of August seems like the perfect time to me. A lot of assumptions are being made at the moment, but we expect the MotoGP calendar in the coming weeks. We also need to know what governments will decide, how many circuits will be available… Misano is also negotiating. We are working on it, just need some confirmation. »
And specifically for MotoE?
“I think we will be the only championship capable of competing in all the races. MotoGP, if it runs, will make 12 stages in Europe. Instead, we are going on 5 circuits, for 7 races in total. I am very calm and serene: we will be able to run all the scheduled races and it is not that easy. However, we will see which circuits will be confirmed, I am not sure of the situation in Assen or in Valencia, see also Misano, Jerez… But we can count on a good number of tracks. »
You “asked” for it, they have satisfied you: this weekend you will be among the protagonists of the first MotoE Virtual Race.
“It was certainly nice to receive this news. We followed the races in the other categories from home and, even if it's clearly not the same thing, it's a way of showing that we are there, that the drivers are training... I also liked this idea because it is a moment of sharing. »
What are the expectations?
“As is my character, I always try to overcome all challenges. Let's say we don't know the level of the others... It's the first MotoE race and no one has ever trained with opponents. At the moment, I can't tell you, maybe a phenomenon will appear on the PlayStation! I prepared myself, even if I don't play much. I watched Esport… Let’s just say it’s a whole other level! I say I'm fine, but there is room for improvement. Fortunately, they favored me, since let's race in Misano! We will try to bring home the best possible result. »
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