On the eve of the 2003 GP season opener in Spain, defending 250cc champion Mickael Pichon [pictured] and new 17 year old team-mate Kevin Strijbos speak about the upcoming season, the new Motocross GP classification and the impending Pichon-Everts battle.
Q: Mickael, you have dominated the 250cc scene for the last two years. How is your motivation for 2003?
Mickael Pichon: My motivation is now building up to a point where it is really good and I am excited to get back racing. The new category and different riders like Everts [most successful Motocross rider of all time] and Smets [multiple former Open class champion] coming into the class creates a different situation and another challenge. I usually get more motivated closer to a race so right now I am eager to travel to Spain for the first GP.
Q: People are already talking about the Pichon-Everts fight for the title. What do you think of your imminent rival?
Mickael Pichon: Stefan [Everts] is a six time World Champion and I really respect what the guy has achieved in the sport and what he has done for it off the track. His physical condition is very good and everybody knows about his style. I watch him race and I'm like a little kid sometimes because I am in awe at the way he makes it look so simple but goes so fast!
We have a good relationship, there is no bad feeling between us and I really like the guy. I think he will be one of the few that will be quick at every GP.
I am not scared to race with him and will treat him like any normal competitor. I do not like to underestimate my rivals and that keeps me sharp. I like to think that anyone is capable of beating me and that means I have to keep a very high level with my training and preparation. If I do not win and have done everything perfectly then I can only be happy because I have lost to a better rider.
