De Diana Tamantini / Corsedimoto.com
Lorenzo Dalla Porta, Montemurlo's long road to the World Championship. The Tuscan driver talks to us about his emotions, the key aspects of the title, and the passion that pushed him so high.
In Montemurlo (in the province of Prato) the journey of an unknown rider with a big world dream began, leading to the title of Moto3 world champion. On Sunday evening, Lorenzo Dalla Porta brought joy to all two-wheel fans on the Italian peninsula, winning a magnificent victory at Phillip Island and the title of the “small” category of MotoGP. After winning the Italian 125 championship and the CEV Moto3 championship, the young Tuscan rider won the World Championship and brought back to Italy the crown of the entry category, which had not happened since 2004. A path made of sacrifices, all rewarded by this great result.
What was the first thought, once you crossed the checkered flag, when you realized you had won the title?
“It’s really an incredible emotion. The first thing was an adrenaline rush, then I cried, although I didn't cry much. I screamed so much with happiness that I almost had no voice. I had won both the race and the championship, the best you can get when you win such an important title. »
What led you to this “qualitative leap”, especially this year?
“First of all, I would say that it is a process that started last year and which was “realized” by the victory in Misano. The team is like a second family for a driver, understanding each other and having a good relationship are key aspects for everything to go well. I think the key was to start trusting each other and working hard, improving the bike and the “work family relationship”. »
Was there a specific moment when you realized you could really win the title? And a time when you thought all was lost?
“In Barcelona, when my motorbike stopped, I found that the slope was very steep. The last three races were the key to really believing in the title. »
You have often spoken about the support your grandmother gave you. Apart from her, between family and friends, who was fundamental in your journey to the World Championship?
“I would say the most important person on this road was my father. He always believed in it, sometimes even more than me. »
What do you think were your best races of the season and what were your worst?
“The best, in addition to the three victories (Sachsenring, Japan and Australia), were those at Losail, Mugello, Le Mans and Assen. In particular, I would like to highlight the result in Thailand: I lost my grandmother on Thursday and it was not easy at all. I also mention third place at Silverstone. There were many races dominated and lost only on the last lap due to small mistakes. »
Was there a particular episode in your career that made you think, “Yes, I want to be a motorcyclist”?
“Actually, I’ve always thought about that. Getting on the motorcycle was something special, it made me feel emotions different from anything I did as a child. Today, like yesterday, it is the thing that I have always loved and that I love the most in the world. »
Have you ever thought about giving up?
“There were difficult times. I often thought I would be forced to give up because of financial problems. But my father always believed in it and always gave everything to make me run and make my dreams come true. »
There are two races left before the end of the season, your last in Moto3: what are the objectives?
“I just want to have fun and try to win these two as well.” Now that I don't have any pressure, it should be easier. That's all I'm thinking about: having fun and trying to win again. In the end, I would say the same objective as usual! »
Read the original article on Corsedimoto.com
