Joe Roberts is part of this new generation which, through its choices, reveals an incredible but apparently true situation: MotoGP is struggling to recruit its riders. We thought that this only concerned the Aprilia project, promising but random. However, with the Yamaha case which must consider the replacement of Viñales and undoubtedly very soon that of Rossi, it seems that the problem is deeper.
Let's take stock of the latest events in the transfer market: Aprilia still looking for its second pilot and Yamaha is now looking for a successor to Casa Particular in Viñales who wanted to leave the brand a year before the end of his contract. A departure that we rather expected from Valentino Rossi who will make an announcement soon. If it is based on the latest results, it should lead to retirement. Which potentially leaves us with three vacant positions, which cannot be filled by internal transfers, of the type that is expected at KTM.
Blessed bread for the next generation who are thus presented on a silver platter with a golden opportunity to realize their lifelong dream? We must believe not. Yamaha went so far as to cast his net in WSBK without the slightest success. As for Joe Roberts, he has the American passport which is good for attracting Dorna's good graces. But he hasn't made up his mind yet, seeming to love his environment in Moto2...
A situation which challenges us, because, sportingly, if Joe Roberts was an illusion last year, it is much less convincing this year. However, he is now playing in the team that made bastianini a World Champion and he still interests Aprilia. But there is nothing to be done, the American is choosy: “ if the promotion doesn't work after this season, I'll try next year » he said. “ Life is about enjoying the present moment. There are a lot of tough decisions to make, but making the most of them is, in my opinion, the best way to succeed »
Joe Roberts: “I am my own biggest critic”
Joe Roberts seems rather to be avoiding his responsibilities and we will recall that his refusal to go to Aprilia at the end of 2020 had even moved his manager. “ I am my own biggest critic. But I'm also crazy sometimes » he comments on speedweek. " In the past, I have often put too much pressure on my shoulders. The team helped me this season. We have the opportunity to reach the best places. I arrive at each track with a positive feeling and I try to stay true to my style »
The previous year it was John Hopkins who looked after him as a coach, now the sporting director of Italtrans, Robertino Pietri, takes care of the business of the man from California. “ He takes care of me “, says Roberts, who insists: “ when I'm the most relaxed, then I'm the fastest ". The 24-year-old pilot returned to his home country during the summer vacation. He wants to recharge his batteries and get back on track in the second half of the season. We will remember that Jack Miller had on the contrary decided not to return to Australia despite his great desire to reunite with his family. But between his career, his ambitions, and his personal case, the Ducati official has clearly chosen.
