2023 Supercross Season: Key Insights from Anaheim and San Diego
Anaheim, CA – The 2023 Supercross season kicked off with heightened anticipation as riders adapted to new machines. Notably, the transition to Ducati for some competitors has added a layer of complexity to the championship.
Ducati rider, who reflects on the beginning of his season, revealed a dual mindset regarding expectations. “Yes, we didn’t know what to expect with the bike… but I felt too good not to raise my expectations,” he stated, emphasizing the balance between optimism and the challenges posed by a new model. His initial goal is to secure a podium finish, acknowledging the competitive landscape of the 450 class as exceptionally fierce.
Starting the season with two top-ten finishes underscores the potential of the new machine, but the racer believes performance could have been improved. “In both races, I could have done much better. My teammate’s misfortune added pressure, making it crucial for me to finish strong,” he explained, referencing the impact of teamwork on individual performance.
The team’s reaction to breaking into the top ten was notably emotional. “I saw Paolo from Ducati crying tears of joy after the heat race,” the rider shared, illustrating the pride felt within the garage despite the challenges of their debut. He noted that while expectations were not explicitly communicated, there was a shared desire to succeed given the team’s hard work.
Overall, the early results suggest that while there is much to develop with the Ducati machine, the potential for podium finishes remains tangible. As the season progresses, the team’s patience and determination will be vital as they navigate the competitive 450 field.
