The launch of the season is fast approaching and the final preparations for this event which will take place at Losail on the occasion of the Grand Prix du Qatar are coming to an end. For Jorge Lorenzo, it's already immersion with more advanced physical training, a tough diet and heightened mental preparation. It must be said that this year, Por Fuera is playing big. Or downright his reputation and his career.
Trying the Ducati adventure is not without risks and regardless of the track record built up before. Especially when the latter was built on the handlebars of a Yamaha… There was Red and now there is the case Lorenzo. Both were weaned on victories as soon as they left their M1 for a Desmosedici.
For Por Fuera, however, the situation seems more serious. Because unlike the Doctor, the Majorcan has a teammate who wins with the same bike as him. But some will say that before Red, some Stoner carried the red motorcycle to the firmament. However, they were never directly confronted at the same time with an identical machine. Which is the case of Lorenzo who is jostled and thrown into the shadows by Dovizioso.
A situation all the more complicated as it can be repeated if we study the results of this offseason. DesmoDovi didn't make any noise but it is confident. Assurance and certainty that Lorenzo always looking. In Trademarks, he admits : " I'm totally obsessed with wanting to win with the Ducati. Because the motorcycle can win. Dovizioso showed it last season and during the winter tests ».
The five-time winner continues: “ Ducati is a very difficult challenge, probably harder than I thought and that's why I'm working like never before with increased enthusiasm. This allows me to learn more about my limits and what I am capable of. I am constantly discovering myself ».
An introspection that encourages humility when making predictions: “ the favorite this year? The reigning Champion. He gives everything and he deserves everything that happens to him. Dovizioso is at his peak, he understands the Ducati very well. Zarco is very strong. Valentino can never be ruled out while Viñales can pop up at any moment. And I hope to be on this list too”.
See you this weekend. It will be recalled that neither Lorenzo like no more than Dovizioso have not yet decided on their future after 2018…