The moment of truth is approaching for Andrea Iannone but also for the Aprilia MotoGP project. The analysis of the second sample of the pilot, the first of which confused it with the detection of substances classified as doping and, in fact, prohibited, will have the value of stopping the life or death of a lifetime's work. The expertise took place on January 7 and the results should therefore not take long. Meanwhile, Aprilia takes the risk of linking the fate of its project to its pilot by taking an unambiguous position...
Andrea Iannone is subject to a license suspension by the FIM since a sample analysis raised strong suspicions of doping on him. In view of the product revealed, it seems that it has an effect on the muscles, which does not seem to be in line with the search for particular performance when riding a MotoGP. For plastic beauty, on the other hand... A vocation which has sparked harsh comments about a Joe the Maniac who would be more focused on social networks than on his motorcycle…
In the meantime, he risks a lot. If his lawyer, the leading figure in this type of procedure, does his job well, it will be a warning. Otherwise, Andrea Iannone will no longer be able to touch a motorcycle in a competition organized by the FIM for, at worst, four years…
At Aprilia, on the eve of the verdict, we wake up. And we take a stand. The Noale brand thus signals that it is essential that Andrea can participate in the Sepang tests which will begin on February 7. And for good reason: it's a brand new RS-GP that will be brought to Malaysia, with an engine open at 90° and no longer 75°, not to mention the other new features... At Aprilia we admit: “ As far as we are concerned it is almost more important that Andrea is on the track for the tests, rather than missing a few races. »
A logic supported by the sports director Massimo Rivola. The latter provides total support to his pilot, at the risk of going down with him if things turn sour. The first objective, after contesting the accusations, will be to “free” the rider to allow him to test the new motorcycle. But the result of this strategy is far from certain…
