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A perfect weekend, in which he didn't just win, but dominate. If the aim in the UK was to reach the highest step of the podium, Raffaele De Rosa didn't disappoint. Extremely fast in practice and then in qualifying, the Althea rider got the job done by powering his BMW to victory come race day.
He couldn't have asked for more.
“I'm so happy, I already realised I had great pace during practice, but then in the race everything can change. There's always some good battles in Superstock but this time I was able to get into the right rhythm and cross the line first”.
You tried to emulate Sykes.
“Well (he smiles), it's nice to hear it put like that, but let's not make that kind of comparison”.
How important is this win?
“It's a significant one, because we achieved it at a technical track, which is also one of my favourites. I debuted at Donington in 125. I really wanted to be back on the top of the podium, also because I knew I had what I needed to make it happen”.
You're leading the championship ahead of Mercado. Will it be a head to head right to the end?
“He has proved to be a tough rival, who deserves to fight for the title. At the moment, the third-placed rider is a bit further back, but we're only mid-way through the championship. We still have the second half to go, and riders like Tamburini or Canepa still might join the battle for the win”.
The next round is Misano. Will you be looking to make up for Imola?
“Absolutely, that's definitely another motivation to win and do well in front of my home crowd. I know the track well, and there are always so many fans there to provide encouragement”.
What is the key to winning the title?
“Not settling, I think that's what makes the difference. We don't run many races in Superstock, so you always have to do the maximum possible, and avoid making mistakes because it becomes difficult to make up for them”.
This year you're on the BMW. How does it differ from the Ducati?
“To be honest, I was immediately comfortable, right from the first time I got on the bike. I was immediately fast, even though the difficulty comes when you need to find those extra tenths. For sure the electronics are simpler, I have better grip and am stronger in terms of corner exit”.
Do you think about Superbike?
“Every day (he smiles). That would be the goal, but I prefer to take it step by step, one race at a time. Right now I need to stay focused on Superstock, we're enjoying a positive season and want this to continue”.
