MotoGP, Merlini: "Gresini probably opened a window to enjoy what his team is doing."

Carlo Merlini has been Fausto Gresini's right-hand man since the start. His sales director, but also a loyal friend he listened to. A man of few words and always out of the spotlight, to the extent that, in order to find a picture of him with Fausto, we had to dig deep into the archives.

Not much of a talker, but not because he has nothing to say. On the contrary, he's always witty, sometimes cutting, which is why his words are often very important. So, after Marc Marquez's second place in Jerez behind Francesco Bagnaia, at the end of a sapid duel, Merlini condensed his emotions with AS in a sentence that says it all.

"It's an exciting moment. Finally, after not having much luck, Marc had a race where he got what he deserves. An exciting podium, with his usual riding style. Let's continue like this and get to the next race," he began, then added: "I hope he'll be able to win soon, because he doesn't lack anything. He's fast and knows the bike. I think a win is possible."

Naturally, Carlo Merlini is also part of the history of the Gresini team. A glorious team that has won many titles and has had many champions, from Gibernau to Kato, to Marco Simoncelli, and beyond.

"Marc, along with Álex, has ten world titles and, ever since Marc came to the team, everything is vibrant, and we live in a very special environment. He brings a lot of energy and positivity. Working with him is great. The same goes for Alex. And I can say the same about his father, Julià, who's a great character. We're really happy, and working with them is great."

As he came to a close, his last comment was touching, because Carlo couldn't help but spare a thought to his friend, to the boss who had created all this.

"Gresini must be smiling wherever he is. I think he probably opened a window to admire what we're doing with his team."