“Porfuera”, an old nickname inherited from his way of overtaking from the outside, is a relatively accessible MotoGP rider and much nicer than we generally want to believe: even if his schedule is always very busy, he happily talks to everyone those who meet him and willingly take part in the now essential activities of a Grand Prix driver, such as selfies and autographs.
In short, Jorge Lorenzo, a rather frank and nice guy who confided in Panorama.it in an interview from which we publish some extracts here.
Jorge Lorenzo : “I laugh often, I joke, I like to be in company. The problem is that you only see me during race weekends, when I'm focused as much as possible. Under the pressure, my face transforms, it becomes serious. Too much. Result ? I seem unfriendly, I realize, I don't do it on purpose. »
Having had Valentino Rossi as a teammate at Yamaha for 9 years was not easy…
“The comparison with Valentino has always been only on the runway. Protagonist of the World Championship for 21 years, he has no rival among fans, above all for victories and for charisma. I behave as it comes naturally to me, I don't worry about pleasing, and I'm happy with the audience that supports me. In addition, I am now part of the Ducati family, which has many enthusiasts. »
What atmosphere did you find in Borgo Panigale?
" Gorgeous. As soon as I entered the factory, I was overwhelmed by the love for "red" that everyone showed. I encountered an exacerbated passion, even in the reception: everyone welcomed me with enthusiasm, perhaps because I won a few world titles. Ducati is truly a special place. »
Is Desmosedici special?
“Unique, I would say. This season we won't win the championship, I knew that before starting, but the bike is more competitive every year: in 2016 Andrea Dovizioso and Andrea Iannone came first twice, I'm aiming for at least three races to start, so as development continues. Because the objective is indeed the World Championship.
How do you define yourself?
“Ambitious, perfectionist and demanding, first with myself, then with others. Happy and satisfied with what I have: my life is wonderful, starting with the fact that my greatest passion turned into work. »
Will you follow in the footsteps of your friend Max Biaggi, who hung up his helmet at 44?
" Never say never. On reflection, at 23, I thought I wouldn't stay long. The reason I didn't stop? I'm having more and more fun and the passion for this sport is gradually increasing. »
Rossi and Marquez are still your competitors: which one would you have dinner with?
“With both, and not only that, but I would like to know more about all the drivers who are on the grid. On a circuit it is impossible to put aside the competition, but it is certain that if we met away from the track, without all the tension of the race, we would get along. »
