The observation is alarming: despite the successes of Fabio Quartararo and Johann Zarco, the pool of young French talents in MotoGP seems to be drying up. In an interview, the 2021 world champion pointed out the reasons for this situation.
Fabio Quartararo et Johann Zarcoemblems of French motorcycle sport, have dominated the headlines in recent years. However, despite their success, no new talent seems to emerge on the French scene. In an interview with Speedweek Quarterly shared his views on this phenomenon.
« I think there is a real lack of enthusiasm. Not for motorcycle racing, because interest in it has declined considerably,
we see it at Le Mans which is by far the best Grand Prix of the year in terms of attendance.
But there is no point in entering the world of racing and motorcycles “, declared
Quarterly.
He notes: “ there are no French riders in Moto2, none in Moto3 and none in the Junior World Championship.
In Spain and Italy, a lot of drivers are emerging because people go to the circuits to drivesuch a culture does not exist in France “, he lamented.
« Fabio Quartararo will be back in the headlines, I can assure you »
Fabio Quartararo himself started his career in Spain, as did
Zarco in Italy. He explains that, in
Francethe lack of championships and support limits opportunities for young drivers. “ All pilots know that between the ages of 14 and 16, running in Spain is almost obligatory ; there is the highest level “, he added.
Regarding his own journey, Quarterly revealed that his father covered the costs of his pilot training, a substantial sum that could have slowed him down. “ My father covered the costs, but it was a lot. I don't come from a rich family. I took a chance and gave it my all “, he said. Despite financial challenges, he won the CEV championship, which was crucial for his career.
On the pressure of reaching the top, he said: “
at fourteen, I was much more mature than my age. I knew how many responsibilities I had, but I never felt pressure at that age.
»
While recent results do not live up to expectations, Fabio Quartararo remain optimistic. “
The day we return to the summits, Fabio Quartararo will be back in the headlines, I can assure you “, he concluded with determination. The future of French motorcycle sport seems uncertain, but Quarterly continues to inspire with his journey and his passion.
