Yamaha’s Valentino Rossi warns Moto2 riders Franco Morbidelli is coming for MotGP and he will be one of the rookies next year. Morbidelli signed under two year for the Belgian racing team, Marc Der Straten (Marc VDS).
Morbidelli was born in Rome, Italy. In his career as a Grand Prix rider, he went straight into the Moto2 category in 2013. He joined Marc VDS after leaving the Italtrans Racing Team in 2016. It means one of Marc VDS’s existing riders, Jack Miller and Tito Rabat, will be forced to out from the squad in the next year.
Morbidelli currently leads the Moto2 table standings with 34 points ahead of Thomas Luthi and 57 points ahead of Miguel Oliveira. This will be what happens to his last year in the category, he will be on the same starting grid as his fellow, and future opponent Valentino Rossi.
“I’ve known Franco for a log time,” Rossi said. “His mother comes from Brazil and his father from Rome, but his father is a former rider and he came to Tavuillia because he wanted to put Franco in a good position to make him a rider.
“Franco’s father went to Graziano and said, “Is it possible to help Franco?” So the first time I saw with his father, a long time ago, and he began to train with me and with Marco Simoncelli. At that time we became friends.” the Doctor added.
Rossi also added Morbidelli could competitive in the 2018 MotoGp. He believes the Italian can threaten other senior riders with his potential. “I think he has great potential. He has talent and he can do nice things.” Rossi said.
“He demonstrated this year. When we train, it is always a problem for us. So I think it will be a big problem for everyone in MotoGP.” the Italian added.
Valentino Rossi warns Franco Morbidelli could be a dangerous competitor in MotoGP. (Source:www.pinterest.com)
Meanwhile, when asked by media, Morbidelli said he has never been as happy as when joined the highest level in motorbike racing.
“It’s a big challenge for me, but it must be admitted that I cannot wait to race in MotoGP but now I have to focus on completing and winning the Moto2 competition, after that’s let’s start talking about MotoGP,” Morbidelli said.
“I hope to be back soon, who knows if it can be a MotoGP race. My goal is to keep this pace and win this championship, that would be the best way to join the MotoGP category, where I will make my debut in 2018 as part of Team Estrella Galica 0,0 Marc VDS.” he added.
