Monster Yamaha rider sat down with GPone to go in great detail about how the coronavirus outbreak has affected his performance as a rider, as well ass his thoughts on the return of MotoGP racing.
“I haven’t touched a bike in two months. I’ve been able to train the past couple of weeks at the Ranch and also on cross-country tracks. Getting back on the bike was a special feeling,” Rossi said.
“In the second of half of last year, the results were not what I would have expected. You have to be faster. It seems like I lost some competitiveness and confidence with the bike, but with a new head mechanic and some changes in the garage, we can find the way to get back to the top. That’s the objective.” Rossi added.
The FIM and Dorna have reached an agreement in principle to resume the latter’s MotoGP campaign behind the door with races in Jerez, Spain, in July.
“This season will be special. First of all because we’ll have more or less half of the races, but the biggest difference for me will be racing twice in a row on the same track.” Rossi said.
“Also, there won’t be nay fans. It’ll be like competing in a closed circuit. It won’t be the same thing. It won’t be great, but racing is important for everyone, actually, essential. My objective will be to be more competitive and fight for the podium.” Rossi added.
When asked how his felt to be the rivals for Yamaha young riders last season, Rossi answered the question slowly and politely.
“Yamaha has three young and very strong riders. Fabio [Quartararo] had an impressive season at his debut, but Maverick [Vinales] is also in great shape, and Franco [Morbidelli] is very fast. It’s always a challenge for a rider like me to go up against them with the same bike.” Rossi said.
