The Spanish driver believes that he could not refuse the call from Honda, although he did not manage to achieve his objectives with the Japanese brand.
Jorge Lorenzo bowed out at the end of the Valencia Grand Prix and an 18-year career in the three categories of the World Championship. If we will therefore no longer see him on the track, there remain the memories of his 68 victories and 84 other podiums, in addition to his five world titles, enough to leave a big void in the paddock.
On the occasion of an anniversary video for Repsol Honda, he spoke with the first Spanish world champion in the premier class, Álex Crivillé, about his beginnings and his experience with the Japanese brand.
“I arrived in the World Championship at 15 years old. I obviously had much less experience, I didn’t even know 20% of what I know today”, he commented. “I was more unconscious, I drove more on instinct. Now I know more when to use my instincts and when to use my head. »
However, and as we know, things have not been easy since his departure from Yamaha for Ducati, and the Mallorcan could have already bowed out at the end of last season, failing to find a contract after the non-renewal of the his with Ducati. But he himself benefited from Dani Pedrosa's decision to retire, and a place became available at Honda. A very big challenge for him, but one he couldn't refuse.
“At 32 this opportunity has arrived, and we can’t say no”, he explained. “If we compare with football, signing with Honda is like signing with Real Madrid or Barça, it is the team with the most titles and the most victories. »
If things have not worked out as planned, Lorenzo still has the pleasure of seeing his name written among the drivers of this legendary Championship team.
