It seems as though Spanish riders are now dominating the racing circuit, and they're doing so at a very young age. As the world champion, how did growing up in Spain prepare you to compete against the other riders in global competition?
We are really lucky in Spain. Over the last 15 years, rookies have been able to ride in great competitions and the Spanish Championship is improving year by year. We have a lot of good riders in Spain, but excellent riders are also coming from other countries and joining us in our competitions. Spain gives you the opportunity to be ready for the world championship.
Was there a rider who inspired you to get into racing?
I’ve always been inspired by Valentino Rossi; he is the rider you want to follow. But I also liked Dani Pedrosa.
What is your first memory of racing bikes?
For sure, watching Valentino's battles in 125cc, 250cc and MotoGP.
How important is it to test the limits of your bike on each track in practice?
I always try to do my best. On Friday, I start preparing the bike according to my first feelings and the performance of the bike. Depending on that, I decide either to push hard or to be more cautious. But I tend to push anyway!
Do you worry about crashes in practice? What is your mindset as you approach the top speed of your bike?
I love this sport, and I enjoy being on my bike. I’m not thinking about crashes, otherwise I wouldn’t even ride. Of course, I am aware of the risks, but if you are always thinking about the worst-case scenario, you cannot be as fast as you want!
What goes through your mind when you actually crash?
The first thing that comes up to your mind is, “How serious is this, and how much does that back hurt?” After that very first moment, you look for the bike to check if you still have a chance to fight. After that, you try to understand why you crashed, if it was your mistake or not.
Is crashing a necessary part of being the best racer in the world
It's part of our lives. If you want to be a pro rider, you need to understand there are also bad moments. You can’t avoid it.
Do you have a favorite corner on the MotoGP calendar? A least favorite corner?
I don't have a favorite corner. I love the Aragon circuit and the corkscrew in Laguna Seca is a special spot for me. Actually, I can’t think of least favorite corner.
How much contact makes for proper motorcycle racing and when is too much?
Contact will always exist in this sport, you cannot always control that when you ride 350 km/h, and mistakes can be made. We are humans! It's too much when you do something intentionally to impact against other riders, but I think that nobody wants that. We always try to avoid contact since it can be harmful for everybody.
What do you like to do off the track to relax?
I like enjoying my time with my family and friends. I love playing football, riding mountain bikes. And rest at home!
Being such a young racer, do you find the sport is having a greater appeal to younger fans? Do you think anything should be done differently to attract younger fans?
We need to keep their dreams alive and help them to develop their passion by doing the best inside and outside the tracks, and believing that being part of a team is the best school of life you can get from sport disciplines.