Victory in MotoGP’s sixth race (or rather the fifth and one and a half, considering that he was out in Barcelona due to his physical condition) is not for everyone. But Jorge Martin managed to take the airborne GP of a consummate champion who controls a mastiff like Joan Mir who pushed him to the last lap. As the Spaniard crossed the finish line, the Pramac team exploded with joy that had been pondered for years, triggered by the long-awaited victory. Ironically, Martin seemed to be the quietest of them all.
“If I had won in the last corner, I would have had a different reaction, but then I had time to think about the win,” he said with a smile. “It wasn’t easy in the last few laps. I promised my team I would have bet on Punta Cana if I had another podium this year, so I thought of the sun and the partying. I will definitely go with them in December. “
Winning a race in the MotoGP debut season is not for everyone. Did you expect it
“I felt super competitive yesterday, especially with worn tires. I didn’t have the same pace as Quartararo or Bagnaia, but I got close and then things went in the right direction. In the first race I had problems with the front, but I changed the tires and in the second it went better. I knew this was going to be a race where you had to be consistent, but I was very strong. When I saw that I was a little ahead of Joan, I tried to give even more. I am very happy for Ducati and for Pramac. I didn’t expect to win. “
How important is this success for you and your family?
“It is impossible to repay my parents for what they did for me. Before we took part in the Rookies Cup, we had no money. When I was twelve I risked giving up and today I won a MotoGP race. I’ve really made progress. Another dream came true, but now I have the one to become a champion. I have to maintain this progress in order to be successful, to keep learning. “
After the injury in Portimao, didn’t you determine that you were at your best in the race?
“When I had fifteen laps left, I felt physically ill. That was the worst moment. Joan was very close. Then as I watched my lead increase a bit, it got better. I tried to be softer and more relaxed while riding and to keep my pace. I was able to cope with the gap a little.”
How much did you think about this win?
“I’ve thought a lot about how best to win. Maybe I had the chance in Qatar. But, After the fall at Portimao, all my thoughts were on the two races on this track because it’s the best of the year for Ducati. As I said, I didn’t expect to be successful, but I did and will have another chance next weekend. I still have room to improve by one or two tenths. “
You also said that your next dream is the title …
“I’ve only done six MotoGP races. I don’t want to think about next year, but I know there is potential to do great things. You can never stop at the MotoGP level, but Ducati works hard and they are just right for me and my riding style. “
Is winning with a satellite team even more important?
“I’m the first driver to win for Pramac and that’s special, but I don’t feel like I’m on a satellite team. I have a works bike and there is something new to test at almost every race. I feel incredibly comfortable in the team and at Ducati. I’m in the best possible place for myself. “
How did you deal with the pressure during the race?
“I didn’t feel a lot of pressure today. It happened to me in the past, but I have matured. I learned a lot in Moto2. I knew it was difficult to stay on this track. I remember the races with Bezzecchi and Marini. Today I was able to maintain my concentration. The one with Me was above all a mental battle. “
In a few days the Austrian GP is due. What do you expect?
“Everyone will make progress and we will be closer. I want to be ready. “
This is the third race in a row that has been interrupted by a red flag at the Red Bull Ring. Is it a Dangerous Route?
“There are some critical points. One is definitely three. Usually accidents happen there and the exit is blind. I think in the future they will change the design and solve the problem, but right now we have to do another race like this. “