Tony Cairoli goes in search of 10
By Sean Lawless on 5th Jan 18
Reigning world MXGP champ Tony Cairoli has been speaking to the promoters of the Italian national championship ahead of the three-round series that takes place over consecutive weekends in February.
The Sicilian, who won his ninth world title last year, revealed that hes been busy over the off-season with marriage to his long-term partner Jill, championship celebrations, rally driving commitments and the Bologna Motorshow all taking up his time.
"The off-season hardly exists anymore," he said, "but Im not complaining because all these commitments are the result of my victories that is the price you pay.
"Its been a year to be framed probably the best of my career. It began with the Italian championship and ended with the marriage to Jill. Too bad the Nations did not go as I wanted to but otherwise it was unthinkable to do better."
With the opening GP just two months away Cairoli is now preparing to make his bid for a record-equalling 10 world titles.
"Now it does not stop a few days of rest and then you have to go back to work and in setting up the bike and the new special tests there is not a moments respite.
"One day there are tests, another I go mountain biking, if theres a particularly beautiful day maybe I go out into the sea in short, very diverse. I have never followed a specific pattern so as not to get bored with a routine too narrow."
With such a long and successful career, its hardly surprising he struggles to choose one definitive favourite memory.
"There are so many! The first career victory in Namur in 2004 to the first title in the Netherlands in 2005, it is very difficult to choose just one. I can think of many special events, such as the Nations of 2006 when I won against the Americans with a 250 or the Arco di Trento last year."
When asked what advice he would give to anyone starting out in motocross, Cairoli places his emphasis on enjoyment.
"All I would say is to have fun always keeping in mind, however, that it is very important to carefully take care of the physical preparation and not underestimate the sacrifices necessary to get up high. Dedication and willpower can lead very far but they cost a lot of sacrifices.
"I am a person who followed his dream all the way, who was educated to make sacrifices which allowed me to get where I am today.
For someone maybe Ill be a legend but I feel really a normal person who likes simple things, like playing ball with friends or a fishing trip on a sunny day."
The Italian championship kicks off on February 4 at Riola Sardo, moves onto Noto on February 11 and concludes at Mantua on February 18.
