The brand new Moto2 World Champion spoke with GP One about his career, his season and his future in MotoGP. Here is the translation of the main elements of this long interview.
How was your arrival in this environment, you who did not originally come from Emilia-Romagna?
For a boy from Piedmont like me, it's really not easy to get interested in motorcycles. But my father and my uncle passed this passion on to me. I started with mini bikes and then when it was necessary to level up in championships I was forced to move closer to Emilia-Romagna, where I now live. I have been in Tavullia for four years. It's really a special experience because when you're at home, you have everything: your parents, your friends and your girlfriend, whereas in Tavullia I had to start from scratch. I have changed my life but I must admit that I enjoy being alone, for example I sometimes go to a restaurant alone. Of course I'm very happy when my girlfriend is there but the loneliness doesn't bother me.
You have been Moto2 World Champion for almost a week. If you hadn't become a pilot, what would you have done?
I wasn't very good at mathematics and physics, but I didn't do too badly in literature subjects. However, I am passionate about cooking, especially pasta.
So you're an excellent cook?
I would like to open a restaurant, although I obviously couldn't take care of it since I'm often busy with the motorbikes (laughs).
Francesco, let's go back to your years in the Italia team. There were some who thought you wouldn't adapt to the World Cup.
It's true, but I never thought about it because I was convinced otherwise. At that time, I was completely devastated because of them, but thanks to the Academy I managed to progress and get going again. I also learned to tell people things and not let it get me down.
How have you changed this year?
I realized that I could win and I became more mature in this aspect. The head has a fundamental role, because when you are aware of being able to do something, you do it.
Now that you are World Champion you are in high demand for autographs, interviews, TV events… Do you like this change?
These are things that are part of the job and therefore they must be done. I am lucky to have a person by my side called Laura Beretta who is absolutely perfect to take care of this part of my work.
In a few days you will officially debut on the Ducati. What can we expect from this Valencia test?
I'm going to try to progress and understand lots of things. It will also be fundamental to acquire all aspects as quickly as possible.
You arrive at Ducati, where there will be Dovizioso, who clearly makes the difference. Will you follow his advice or Rossi's?
Vale, always. I am lucky to have him by my side and in terms of passion and desire he beats everyone.
