[WSBK] Exclusive Interview Beatriz Neila: “It’s almost impossible for sponsors to bet on me”

De April Gomez Casares / Motosan.es

Beatriz Neila analyzes her first season and the sporting recognitions obtained in 2019 in Supersport 300, after announcing that she had to leave the competition due to lack of economic support. “”

Beatrice Neila (April 15, 2002, Arganda del Rey, Madrid). The Madrid driver made the jump to Supersport 300 after her stint in the Red Bull Rookies Cup. In addition, on several occasions, Yamaha has recognized the career of Beatriz Neila. For example, she was invited to the Yamaha Masterclass in Italy with the brand's best SSP300 riders from Italy, France, Great Britain and Spain.

Based on its results, progress has been made. This was the case for the Madrid rider who obtained one of the six places to compete in the 2019 season within the Yamaha bLU CRu project in SSP300. After this first season, she was able to end the year by being the first woman to participate in the “100KM dei Campioni” organized by Valentino Rossi.

However, despite the good results obtained in 2019, his career within the SSP 300 ends there. Beatriz Neila did not obtain the necessary economic support to be able to continue racing this season.

Interview…

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What did you learn from 2019 and what will you put into practice in 2020?

Beatrice Neila : « This season has been very rich in terms of learning. I learned to manage the pressure of the World Cup and certain situations on the track. In particular, control during timed trials, knowing how to act. »

What are the goals for 2020?

« This season I will not be competing in the SSP300 Worlds, but I will continue to work and train as hard as possible in case a project arises. »

You've often made statements about a glass ceiling when it comes to sponsors. Why don't sponsors invest in drivers if they are girls?

« For any motorcyclist, it is very difficult to find a sponsor in the world of motorcycling, and whether it is a boy or a girl, it does not matter. I speak from my experience, and it is very difficult for me, not to mention that it is almost impossible for sponsors to bet on me, especially in the engine world. »

What does it mean for you not to have the necessary sponsors?

« For me, this means not being able to participate in the SSP300 World Cup in this case. But in any championship, not getting sponsors causes the same thing. If there is no financial support to sponsor, there is nothing to do, at least in my case, because it is a cost that must be borne by my family, and this is no longer possible . »

You had the strength to overcome the accident and your femur injury in 2017, in addition to multiple collarbone operations. From the outside it looks like you pilots are made of something different. How do you deal with injuries?

« When you're injured, a lot of things go through your mind, but your thoughts immediately come back and you wonder how long your recovery will take because all you want is to be back on the bike as quickly as possible. . 2017 was a tough year, not only because of the accident and the injuries, but also because of everything that happened afterwards. That year I became very strong, and I love the scar I have because it is very special. »

First woman selected for the Yamaha VR46 Master Camp. How was the experience?

« Incredible, it was a great experience where I was able to meet extraordinary people and work with wonderful professionals, and share a week with wonderful colleagues. An experience I will never forget and for which I will always be grateful to Yamaha. »

You were one of the guests at Valentino Rossi's Ranch for the “100KM Campioni”. How do you remember this weekend?

« It was the best weekend of my life, from the moment I got the call. Imagine how powerful it was to share the grid with Valentino Rossi. To be surrounded by quality drivers. World champions and true professionals who treated me like one of them and gave me advice. Amazing people, truly, a weekend I will never forget. It remains in my heart, what a pleasure! I learned from each of the pilots who were there. »

How would you define Ana Carrasco and Maria Herrera?

« On the track we are rivals, but outside there is a cordial friendship. Maria Herrera and Ana Carrasco are two great drivers and above all beautiful people. »

Finally, what advice would you give to girls starting out in the world of motorcycles?

« Above all, they have fun doing what they love. Let them fight for everything they want and above all, let them send big gas! »

 

Read the original article on Motosan.es

Text and photo:  April Gomez Casares