As the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP team launch for 2015 took place, Jorge Lorenzo insisted that World Champion Marc Marquez is again the man to beat this year in MotoGP.
In a Q&A session ahead of the forthcoming season, Lorenzo previewed this year’s campaign and the preseason tests which commence next week…
Last year began with so many difficulties, how are you this year?
“I think I’m in much better shape. Physically I’m stronger from training because we have been focusing on the best workout sessions and I have not had to undergo surgery as occurred in 2014. Until I get on the bike and see how it’s going I prefer to be cautious and see what happens.”
What has changed in preparing this year compared to 2014?
“Well, last year I decided to change trainers because at the end things were not going as I wanted. Now I’ve found my balance with my new coach from Argentina and have been working conscientiously for this season, so I hope to get better and not make the mistakes of the past year.”
Every year is a new challenge, each year a new dream is coming up. What do you expect this season?
“Well, as I always say I can’t guess the future, the future is uncertain for everyone and especially in sport and in motorcycling where you never know what can happen. Obviously you can prepare well and have more options to get a better result than if you do not but ultimately many factors affect whether you are the best and battling for the title. Last year the bike got better and better and in the second half I was able to take podiums. If we continue improving and other factories do not give many steps forward I think we can start strongly. You never know if winning is enough but at least staying constantly on the podium will mean finishing high up in the World Championship.”
What guarantees has Yamaha given you regarding a more competitive bike?
“We don’t know until we start the first practice of the year. We don’t know at what level the M1 will be at Sepang but I am sure our engineers have worked hard to make it very fast! I know already I should not expect improvements of a second per lap, but I am very positive and optimistic.”
The second half of 2014 season saw you regularly on the podium. Do you feel a strong title contender again this year?
“Last year I certainly was not, because I was never there in the first races because of the mistakes. I prefer not to assume the favorite role because I’m not this time. I think the final result of the championship was in line with how the season went. I think Marquez should be the favorite, and then Valentino. Dani and I are behind until the opposite is proven.”
