Carlos Checa: "I will work for Ducati in presentations and events"

This year 2013, one of our great riders has decided to retire from competition, one of the greats, Carlos Checa, “El 7” (the Bull), has hung up his leathers after many years of action, bikes, teams and different championships.

A few days ago he attended an important event, and there he took the opportunity to share his vision of the future from now on. Of course, he also talked about his current physical condition after the problems he has dragged along all year since his crash at the Phillip Island Circuit.

On his physical condition

It has been difficult to recover from my last injury, but at the same time my new situation gives me more time to do so. For the first time I am not in a hurry to recover, as I used to be when I was racing. I still don’t walk perfectly, but I hope that by the end of December or the beginning of January I’ll be able to do some exercise, maybe skiing and running too, but I’ll take it easy. Physically, I now feel much better.

The doctors say that recovering from an injury like this normally takes three or four months. Of course, I could probably ride a motorcycle now, but that is not part of my plans. Maybe in January I can start practising my usual sporting activities.

On his new role at Ducati

For the moment, I want to take some time. I have told everyone that I want to take a year to relax and recover completely. I will work for Ducati in presentations and promotional events, but nothing related to racing. I would also like to get out on track in some sessions. I know that Ducati organises between ten and fifteen events of this type a year.

On the future of WSBK

There is already a new generation of riders who will take WSBK into the future, there are also new technical regulations and a different approach to things. I think it is the beginning of a new era for many reasons, and I also believe all of that will be very beneficial for the future of this sport.

Regarding the EVO category

Honestly, I think the introduction of the EVO category will be very positive. Technology does not produce emotions, perhaps only a greater level of safety. However, on track everything is going to be much more even. At such a difficult time for the economy, particularly in motorcycle racing, cutting costs is crucial. Superbike is not about technology; it is an exciting competition for the riders and the public.

And on Spanish riders

Spain has a great tradition in motorcycle racing, although more focused on MotoGP. However, I think that will change in the future. There are riders who can do well in WSBK. I am sure Dorna will give this championship much more visibility in our country. It is a good and fun competition, and also more accessible.

Source | WorldSBK