The Suzuki rider spoke with GP One about the season that awaits him as leader of the team in 2019. Here is the translation of the interview.
What will change with the departure of Iannone for Aprilia and the arrival of Mir? Will you have more responsibilities?
Andrea's departure won't change anything. Personally I will have more experience compared to two years ago, even if Iannone remains a very strong driver. I am not afraid of responsibilities, on the contrary, it will stimulate me more and make me strong for the future. I feel at home at Suzuki and I am happy with my contract renewal for the next two years. I will have the same responsibilities as before, even if Iannone will no longer be there. We work hard in the team to achieve the goal of reaching the top.
Next season you are expected for the ultimate progress, namely victory.
We are coming off a positive 2018 and are already looking ahead to next year. The bike is in full progress even if it perhaps lacks a little finishing work on all points. Considering the latest tests I would say that we are still close to the summit.
The first meeting of the year will take place during the February test.
We will have to define everything in Sepang, with a view to arriving prepared in Qatar. I honestly don't know what to expect in Malaysia, even though they assured me that they work hard in Japan.
Is the gap with Honda and Ducati very big?
Our gap is still present, but it has decreased significantly. It is obvious that Honda, Ducati and Yamaha have something more compared to us but we must not forget that Suzuki only returned to the World Cup a few years ago.
What do you think of the new Honda duo, Márquez-Lorenzo?
For me they are both strong and I am curious to see them together.
You spoke previously about Yamaha. Do you think that your bike is, in certain respects, superior to 2018?
Honestly I wouldn't know how to say, especially because Maverick was quick in the tests. I am convinced that once the season starts they will be among the best, whether it is him or Valentino.
