Francesco Bagnaia is looking forward to the challenge of stepping up to Moto2 with Sky Racing Team VR46, describing it as a ‘family’. Both team and rider will move up a class and the Italian rider is under no illusions over the task facing him.
Bagnaia’s reputation is at an all-time high after claiming his maiden Moto3 victory aboard a Mahindra last year and hopes to impress on his 2017 Kalex, although he has warned not to expect too much too soon.
“The jump to Moto2 will be a big innovation, but I decided to deal with this important step in a team which for me is a family. I’ll be a rookie, in the first few races I have to pick up the pace, and have by my side trusted people. In these two years I have matured, not only as a rider and I’m curious to get back on track. We started on the right foot in the first test: although the completely new bike and team, I was able to be fast and competitive in all conditions. The goal is to close the gap with the top positions as soon as possible”.
Stefano Manzi will complete an all-rookie line-up for Sky VR46’s first Moto2 campaign and the 17 year old, who impressed in a Moto3 wildcard outing at Silverstone, is hoping to be challenging for the points positions in the intermediate class.
“At the end of the summer had not yet certain projects for 2017, then in September, everything has changed in just a few days. I joined the VR46 Riders Academy, then the Sky Racing Team VR46. It seems obvious, but this is a great growth opportunity for me. I know that I expect a lot of work, I will give my 100%, but I have the support of the whole Team. Between tests and the first races it will be crucial to take the pace: the goal is the Top15 from mid-season.”
