Carlos Checa on new career and future of WSBK
WorldSBK.com has caught up with Carlos Checa during an event organised by the Generalitat de Catalunya in Barcelona this week. The 2011 Superbike World Champion, who bowed out from racing at the end of last season, was part of a group of riders of various disciplines received by President Artur Mas for their role as representatives of Catalunya into world-level motorcycle racing. The conversation covered many topics:
Physical conditions
"It was quite difficult to recover but at the same time my new situation gives me some time. For the first time I have no rush to come back like I used to do when I was racing. I'm still not walking perfectly, but hopefully by the end of December, beginning of January I'll start doing some exercises outdoor, I hope also skiing and cross-country, but I would take it stedily. My conditions are now much better, doctors said that it usually takes 3-4 months to recover from this type of injury. Of course now I can probably ride bikes, but now it is not the case and my feeling is that hopefully in January I will leave all this behind and start back doing some sporting activities like I always did."
New role with Ducati
"Basically I want to take my time. I told everyone I want to have at least one year to relax and some time to recover. I will work with Ducati for presentations and promotional events, but nothing that requires sporting competition. I would like to do some track days", too. I reckon Ducati will organise something like 10-15 events in a year."
The future of WSBK
"A new generation of riders is what brings World Superbike to the future, as well as new technical rules and a different approach into things. It's a beginning of a new era for many reasons and I think this will work very well for the sport."
Evo class
"Honestly I'm very positive about the introduction of the EVO class. Technology doesn't bring more emotions, maybe more safety, but the field is surely going to be much more leveled. In such a difficult time for the economy, especially in the world of motorcycling, cost reduction is crucial. Superbike is not about technology, it's about great competition for all the people involved in the series."
Spanish riders
"Spain always had a great tradition in motorcycle racing, even though mostly in MotoGP, but I think this will change in the future: there are some promising in WSBK and some great riders from the past and I'm sure Dorna will bring more visibility to the series in our Country. It's a very good and fun championship, plus it's easier to become part of it."
