Pol Espargaro admits he felt under pressure to deliver for Red Bull KTM following on from victories in the Moto2 and Moto3 classes by Miguel Oliveira and Can Oncu respectively before his podium charge.
The MotoGP rider watched on in admiration as Oncu created history by becoming the youngest-ever Grand Prix winner at 15 years and 115 days on his Moto3 debut for Red Bull KTM Ajo before Oliveira made it a double victory by winning the Moto2 race for the Austrian brand.
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But with the rain returning for the MotoGP race, Espargaro says he was “scared” attempting to emulate their feats in Valencia.
Espargaro then went from crashing off in the opening race only to remount before the red flag stoppage, enabling his crew to repair his Red Bull KTM along with fresh tyres, to charge to third place and a maiden MotoGP podium both for him and KTM in the premier class.
“I was a little bit scared looking at the weather and seeing these guys doing amazing races,” Espargaro said. “These young guys in Moto3 staying on the bike in these conditions and then Miguel in front of all these fans and doing this crazy race. I said to myself you are going to look ridiculous if you don’t do something good.
“I am super happy with the results for KTM, they deserve it, you don’t know how much effort they are putting in and money. Finally for them to finish the year in those positions.
“We are trying to be as fast as the dirt guys in MX who are winning everything in all categories and with the road bikers we are a little bit behind so I am glad to show we have some power.”
Espargaro also gave special praise to Turkish teenager Oncu and his historic ride and is convinced the 15-year-old is destined for greatness in the future.
“This guy is the best, the best kid, I am super happy he is in our structure with KTM and Red Bull,” he said. “One day this kid is going to grow and show his talent and maybe he will finish with KTM in MotoGP. I am really proud of what he has done and happy for his family.”
