Moto GP
EXCLUSIVE: Augusto Fernandez Faces Uncertain Future in MotoGP Amidst Fierce Competition
EXCLUSIVE: MotoGP Rider Faces Uncertain Future in "the Worst Situation I Can Be In"
Augusto Fernandez discusses his precarious position with Crash.net at Silverstone.
Augusto Fernandez's chances of securing a MotoGP seat for the 2025 season are uncertain following a lackluster performance in the first half of 2024, which saw him ranked 17th in the riders' standings.
KTM has effectively decided to part ways with the rider wearing the #37. They have instead advanced Pedro Acosta, who currently races for the GasGas Tech3 team, to their main factory team for the upcoming season, where he will join Brad Binder. Additionally, KTM has recruited Enea Bastianini and Maverick Vinales to strengthen the Tech3 lineup.
"I am in the most difficult position possible," Fernandez shared exclusively with Crash.net at Silverstone.
"I've stepped away from MotoGP, so now my attention is solely on riding and maximizing every moment I spend on the track."
Rider #37 emphasizes that his main goal is to continue in MotoGP. He is eyeing one of the few available spots for the 2025 season, which could be either of the two positions at Pramac Yamaha or the seat next to Raul Fernandez at the Trackhouse Aprilia team.
Fernandez admitted that it's challenging, but he expressed his desire to take advantage of every opportunity available to him in MotoGP, noting that there aren't many left.
Despite Fernandez's situation appearing dire, it mirrors the experience of Fabio Di Giannantonio from the previous year. Di Giannantonio faced a similar scenario before last summer's break, when it looked like his time in MotoGP was ending. However, current reports suggest that the Italian rider is now close to obtaining a 2025-spec Ducati for the upcoming season.
Fernandez is eager to stay in MotoGP and is resolute about not returning to Moto2, where he claimed the World Championship title in 2022.
"For now, the least favorable option is returning to Moto2," he mentioned, noting that "I am aware of everything. My manager is in discussions with everyone, considering all offers."
Should a MotoGP agreement not come to fruition for Fernandez, he is considering WorldSBK as an alternative.
He mentioned that WorldSBK would be his second option or fallback, even ahead of Moto2. At 26 years old, he feels he still has plenty to accomplish in his career.
"Superbike racing isn't the ultimate goal; it's a viable career path where individuals can have fun and enjoy the sport, which is exactly what we're aiming for."
"This year in MotoGP has been really challenging. I'm aware that there's still much I need to accomplish in MotoGP. However, as I mentioned, competing in Superbike isn't a bad alternative. If a competitive bike is available in Superbike, I'll consider it."
While it's not entirely clear what Fernandez defines as a quality bike in the WorldSBK series, the Spanish racer acknowledges that "The championship features very exciting races with numerous battles and overtakes. However, it is not my main focus at the moment; I'll consider Superbike when it's certain that I'll be joining, but not right now."
Fernandez does not anticipate it will take a long time to decide whether he will stay in the Grand Prix paddock or move to WorldSBK.
"I need to ensure my future is secure, and I can't wait until Valencia to do that. Contracts are finalized at the first MotoGP race in Qatar, so the decision about Fernandez's future will happen now."
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