Just a year ago, the Italian rider was at the forefront and took podiums with the official Suzuki team. Previously, he also achieved good results with Ducati, and even won his first victory. But this year, he must somewhat forget the idea of shining to advance the Aprilia project, which is not yet at the level of its opponents. A difficult situation to live with and which sometimes makes him regret his past decisions.
After a very complicated start to the season, Andrea Iannone is finally a little more competitive, and has also achieved a top 10 and an 11th place in the last two Grands Prix, despite an absence due to injury. Results which allow him to finally breathe a little and cope better with the situation. “Not winning or not fighting for the places that count always leaves its mark” he explained to GP One.
“Especially when, when you are on the track, you are aware that you can do it. Even when you're struggling, you can understand where you can improve, where you can make a difference and where the bike is penalizing you. I am very critical and honest with myself. When I realize that it's not coming because it's my fault, I tell the guys “I'm the one who needs to improve”. »
However, even if the driver questions himself, many things still need to be improved on the manufacturer's side. However, he remains confident in the latter's abilities: “Naturally, a driver would like to be able to race every Sunday to win and, when you can't, everything becomes more difficult. But the desire is still there, and I guarantee you that on my side, but also that of Aprilia, who has won a lot, the commitment is there. Aprilia is not in MotoGP to be behind. The team is here to return to the highest level, just like me. »
Obviously, even if he is still motivated, Iannone cannot avoid thinking about the opportunities he has missed, notably one from Ducati in the past. However, he remains evasive about the offer he received: “You want to know if I have any regrets? Yes, I could have responded differently to a call I received. I should have said “yes” instead of “no”. But it was part of my adventure. I am more realistic today, more patient and less instinctive. Of course, with experience, I would have said “yes” today, and it's difficult to admit it, especially because I'm very proud. But you're often wrong and you pay for it, so you roll up your sleeves and move on. »
