Crash.net recently offered its viewers the opportunity to ask former MotoGP rider Sylvain Guintoli questions about his 2009 move to the British Superbike Championship with Crescent Suzuki.
This is the first part of what the British-based Frenchman - who spent two years in MotoGP, with Tech 3 Yamaha and then d'Antin Ducati - had to say...
Q - wasabi
Your MotoGP experience is likely to make you an early favourite for the title, but what do you think will be the biggest challenge to face you in 2009?
Sylvain Guintoli
The biggest challenge for me will be learning the circuits. I have only raced at Donington so far, so I will spend the winter learning the layouts, so I can be ready for next season.
Q - nono
Est-ce que ton contrat en BSB ouvre une porte de "remplaçant" en motogp d'un depilotes titulaire en cas de blessure? Et pour l'avenir est ce qu'une option MOTOGP ou WSBK est envisageable (ou contractuelle?) Merci de ta réponse, bye.
Translation: Does your contract with BSB allow you to replace one of the Suzuki MotoGP drivers if they are injured? Have you looked into joining MotoGP or WSBK in the future? (and maybe signed a contract?). Thank you for your answers, bye.
Sylvain Guintoli
Le Team Suzuki-Crescent BSB est gere (comme son nom l'indique!) par la meme societe que le Team Suzuki-Crescent en MotoGP. La connection est donc presente, meme si mon objectif principal pour 2009 est le titre en BSB. Pour 2010, tout est envisageable.
Translation: The Suzuki-Crescent BSB Team is managed, just as its name indicates, by the same people as the Suzuki-Crescent Team in MotoGP. Both are thus linked, but my main goal for 2009 will be to win the title. As for 2010, nothing specific is planned yet.
Q - David C
Which circuit are you looking forward to racing on most in the BSB?
Sylvain Guintoli
Cadwell should be good fun!
Q - Robin
BSB is known for a bit of fairing bashing, paint swapping action. Are you looking forward to mixing it with the Brits or is that a concern? Good luck by the way!
Sylvain Guintoli
This does not bother me too much. Can't wait to get my head down and elbows out!
Q - Wan Rohafizan
