After making his debut in the Moto2 world championship in 2021, Tony Arbolino trusts the Elf Marc VDS Racing team to help him regularly become a top rider.
In this first interview since joining the Belgian team, he analyzes his first season in Moto2, explains why he signed for the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team, and shares his hopes for a successful future.
What convinced you to join the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team?
Tony Arbolino: «
I decided to join the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team because it is one of the best teams in the history of the Moto2 category. It's a great emotion for me to be here and I can't wait to experience this new adventure. My first season in Moto2 was sometimes difficult but I learned a lot and when I was given the opportunity to join this team, I didn't hesitate for a second. I am so proud to be part of this project and so motivated to make it a success. »
How do you think Elf Marc VDS Racing can help you become stronger and more competitive?
« A driver always wants to improve and be better and I think the environment provided by the Elf Marc VDS Racing team is the perfect place for me to do that. This is a team that can help me win and I am convinced that with them I can achieve better results and be a better driver. »
What are your impressions of the Elf Marc VDS Racing team?
« This team is incredible. I have already found a very good feeling with my new team, but everyone in this team is very professional and motivated to give the best of themselves at all times. I like the mentality of everyone involved. I have never felt such a powerful feeling in any other project before and it always gives me a lot of motivation because I can see in everyone a great desire to succeed. »
How do you evaluate your first season in Moto2?
« I think it was a great first season in Moto2 for me because I was able to learn a lot. There were ups and downs, but I learned a lot about this category that will make me stronger in the future. I can't deny that I expected more from my first season and thought I would fight for the podium in some races, but that wasn't possible. Now is the time to take the plunge and with the Elf Marc VDS Racing team, I am sure I can achieve my goals. »
What are the big things you learned in 2021?
« Moto2 is completely different from what I was used to in Moto3. The bike is very different, not easy to understand the limit, and it takes time to adapt to the weight, power and tires. And the level of the other drivers is very high. It’s a very competitive category and it’s up to the driver to make that very important last step. »
How would you describe yourself as a pilot?
« Well, first of all, I think I'm a good driver. I like to think that when I have to be, I'm an aggressive driver and also a consistent driver. I think I'm a talented driver but now I have to show that I am and what I can do. »
And how would you describe Tony Arbolino as a person?
« As a person, I think I'm very easy-going. Off the track, I am very attached to my family and I enjoy spending time with the people closest to me. I love sport, I love competition and I love pushing myself to be the best and try to win. »
What are your strengths as a driver and where do you need to improve?
« I think my strong point is that when I feel confident and comfortable with the bike, I can make a difference. A runner is always looking to improve in all areas and it's the same for me. I would like to be stronger in all conditions and I think this team can help me progress as a driver. They have so much experience and I think that will be crucial in helping my development. »
What do you think of your new teammate Sam Lowes?
« Even when I was in Moto3, I always tried to follow him closely because his results imply that he is a benchmark rider in this category. It's amazing to be in the same box as him, and I want to use his experience to help me improve. I know he can help me a lot and I hope I can help him too, but being with him gives me a lot of confidence and motivation. He's also a really good guy and I'm really looking forward to having fun with him, on and off the track. »
What are your goals for the 2022 season?
« My main goal is to take the next step as a driver and work on improving in the areas where I need to. The reason I signed for this team though is because I want to show everyone what I can do in Moto2, and I have no doubt that I will do that. I am convinced that with the help of this Team, I will soon be at the top and I can't wait to start the season. »
