Andrea Iannone is doing respectably well for a replacement in Malaysia. Five years ago, he competed here in his last MotoGP Grand Prix as an official Aprilia rider, before being banned from the circuits for four years for doping. It was only at the start of 2024 that he returned to the Superbike circuits, quickly making a name for himself. Called by Valentino Rossi to replace Fabio Di Giannantonio – absent from the last two rounds of 2024 to have shoulder surgery – Andrea Iannone discovers a changed MotoGP, but still with the passion that characterizes it.
The feeling that overwhelmed Andrea Iannone at the end of this second day was quite strange. At the same time, he is happy to be back at the highest level, but also, he is extremely tired. « I have the speed, but the problem is the physical aspect. I lack the necessary preparation. At turn 4, my arms no longer supported me, my body wanted me to move forward on its own. I only did one lap of the Sprint at my true potential. I could be faster, but you have to be physically prepared. » he affirmed in the columns of GPOne.
This is where we realize the difference with the WSBK championship, which does not require as much preparation. « In Superbike, there is not 1% of the aerodynamic load that we have in MotoGP. Here, everything exhausts you, it generates a lot of load, especially when braking. The acceleration is also very surprising. You need to do everything to the fullest, because as soon as you slow down, you lose a lot. I didn't expect that” he continued.
Photo : Michelin Motorsport
This experience of one or two weekends will leave him with memories, but also after-effects. Current MotoGP leaves very real physical scars. « I could have been faster, but I thought, “What’s the point?” » This morning I got up with all the pain a man can suffer. It must be said that I did not choose a simple path. My toes even hurt, I have to walk on my heels, although I don't even know when I used my toes! » he concluded.
Do you think he can do better tomorrow in the main race? Tell us in the comments!
Sprint result at the 2024 Malaysian Grand Prix:
Ranking credit: MotoGP.com
Cover photo: Michelin Motorsport
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