Few drivers divide as much as Pol Espargaró. In France, in particular, the Spaniard has built a reputation as a virulent driver, not hesitating to verbally attack his opponents. His multiple muscular exchanges with Johann Zarco confirm these statements, although, as is often the case, everything is not all black and white. Recently arrived at Repsol Honda, “Polyccio” does not hide his ambitions: he is aiming for the title. But is this possible?
On paper, everything seems favorable to the probable success of No. 44. In terms of working environment, the most important thing for any high-level athlete, few teams can offer better than Repsol Honda. As a reminder, this is the best MotoGP team in history, totaling seventeen pilot titles since 1994. Furthermore, recruitment within the team is always careful. Failures exist, but are rare compared to other teams.
Since 1995, only two regular drivers (Stefan Bradl except) have failed to score the slightest podium over a season: Jorge Lorenzo 2019 in, and
Sete Gibernau in 2000. A scary statistic. If we rely on the numbers, Espargaró should at least achieve podiums, and why not win a victory. Given this, this would not be surprising and should not be overstated.
At least the Zarco – Espargaró rivalry spices up the category. Photo: Michelin Motorsport
Ditto for qualifying: He is a naturally fast and talented driver, who should succeed in mastering the RC213V on Saturday. However, between podiums and a title, the step is high... or not. The context will play a huge role because last season demonstrated that nothing was impossible. Given the evolution of the health context at the time of writing, it would seem that we are heading towards a similar season.
Regularity, he has it. By finishing 11 times out of 14, Pol proved that his tendency to fall was not verified, contrary to what one might think. Advanced statistics also suggest great things: when Espargaró doesn't fall, he systematically finishes in the points.
Furthermore, he has only finished outside the points three times since his arrival in MotoGP in 2014.
The dynamics also work in its favor. The Catalan has only progressed since joining KTM in 2017, going from
3,05 points per race 3,4 in 2018, then 5,55 in 2019 and finally
9,64 last year. A notable progression, which also comes, a priori, from the evolution of the RC16. But the fact remains that he was the cornerstone of the project from the very beginning.
His experience as a rider/tuner will help him adapt to the Honda, it's very likely. But is that enough for a world champion title? Not sure. Everything suggests that Espargaró will have a decent 2021 season, but the coronation remains a step above.
The future of our sport in a photo? Photo: Michelin Motorsport
Mature, in order to draw on your experience at the end of the race, and hope to win a round of the world championships. Everything should be unlocked from that moment on. The level of his teammate and rival Marc Márquez will necessarily play a role: if the latter has fun like in 2019 and has a season of 420 points, I will espargaro,
Morbidely, Mir or anyone will find it difficult to compete.
It must be remembered that only Valentino Rossi,
Casey Stoner et Marc Márquez have, since 2002, achieved the feat of winning the title after changing employers. The task promises to be arduous, especially for the first year.
Being realistic, there is little chance that Pol will lift the trophy, even if certain elements undeniably seem to work in his favor. His regularity and speed will help him but it is the overall context and his adaptation which will decide. A top 4 finish with an average of 9,5 – 10,5 points per race is a solid goal. If he manages to acclimatize, watch out for the Spanish in 2022... The latter could well surprise more than one.
Cover photo: Box Repsol / Honda
