In the assessment of this 2017 season, there is an area which is highlighted by certain drivers while the most skeptical until now have converted to the cause for 2018. This is the mental aspect of preparation for 'a champion. An area passed over in silence thatAndrea Dovizioso highlighted not only through his speeches, but also through his excellent results. Motorcycling is therefore also a mental sport and, on speedweek, Pol Espargaró confirms by paying tribute to his older brother Aleix.
A brother who is still an opponent on the track. In the 2017 general classification, Pol finished only seven points behind an official Aleix from an Aprilia factory, however beaten in the hierarchy of manufacturers by the debutant KTM, whose majority of points were brought back by the cadet. With nine appearances in the points during the last eleven races, including eight among the top 11, Pol Espargaro did the job with the RC16. But to get there, you not only need good driving, you also need a well-shaped head.
And this is even the essential thing to succeed. Pol explains: “ What emerges from my experience of competition is that driving is ultimately not the most important thing. It's more a matter of character, approach, attitude. These are essential things. Your behavior plays a huge role in Grand Prix and in life in general. I have learned a lot in recent years about how I react to certain situations. But I remain young, I have fire in me and sometimes it consumes me. I still have to learn how to deal with it ».
« However, I have evolved a lot after these years in the paddock, and I am sure that I will change again. If some young people disappear as quickly as they appeared, it is because they did not know how to handle pressure properly. ". And on this point, he looks back on his 2013 season which gave him the Moto2 title. A successful campaign because the environment was there, starting with his brother Aleix…
« It's important to be well surrounded, it allows you not to get carried away by euphoria. You always need someone to regulate you. On this point, it is certain that my brother Aleix played a big role. He taught me a lot, not only about motorcycling but also about life. I got the title in 2013 thanks to this positive set. Aleix was essential. He helped me in every race this season. He always encouraged me to fight, even when I was 50 points behind Scott Redding. He lifted my spirits when I was down. Having Aleix by my side was invaluable. ».
