Wilco Zeelenberg spoke about the recent times he has experienced as team manager of the CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team. And he particularly praised Raúl Fernández ahead of the new season.
‘I can say it was the most hectic period I’ve had in my entire career as a team manager. Without a doubt, everyone was aware of what was happening and of course, there were many questions I couldn’t say anything about during the season, everything happened abruptly. We are still finalizing everything related to RNF and transferring the material, the contracts with Trackhouse are also clear, which means everything is a bit clearer now and we have already been able to confirm the races that will take place in winter, booking flights, hotels, etc. The Americans want to see something of their own, having an American team in MotoGP works better than just seeing foreign riders and teams,’ he told Racesport.nl, referring to the case that led to the departure of the Malaysian team and the entry of Trackhouse.
‘We didn’t have many moments to be really happy about the sporting performance in 2023, but thanks to the development of Raúl Fernández, we finally managed to finish the year on a positive note,’ he praised, highlighting the rider’s performance in the tests held in Valencia in November.
‘Raúl was among the top riders throughout the day and rode consistently. That doesn’t mean we’ll be at the front next year, because Valencia is a special track and the competition doesn’t stand still, especially on longer circuits. The Ducatis will continue to be difficult to beat,’ he concluded.
