Dorna Sport CEO Carmelo Ezpeletta recently assessed that the WSBK Level was below MotoGP and revealed that Kawasaki asked Dorna to be given a Wild Card slot in the MotoGP Class using the ZX-10RR. And regarding this GPOne has directly questioned Jonathan Rea as Ace Rider of the KRT factory team
“It’s not my position to talk about it (about the Wild Card request), I’m not responsive to the request, it’s a question for Guim (Wheel). I know a little of his background, but I feel a little sad about the interview because I feel he does not respect (WSBK). Strange interview because I am very proud of Superbike, I have been here all my career and I think that (refusing Kawasaki wild card requests) was made to make it look like Superbike is the second division. It doesn’t sound good, but that’s what happened “
Yep, in the last sentence as if according to Rea Kawasaki Wild Card Rejection by Dorna deliberately made to downgrade WSBK.
When asked about his feelings about racing in MotoGP, Rea answered “I am fortunate to have the opportunity to ride MotoGP in two races with the manufacturing team and one of the best motorcycles in history (Honda RC213V). But after that, I never received a contract or proposal at the table. I am happy with my career; I can retire with satisfaction.
But there was a part in me that was sad because I never had the chance to be there. Now it’s too late, I don’t believe I can be a world champion at 33 years old. When I was younger maybe, but not at this time. The level is very high, please look at Marquez’s amazing skills or another one like Quartararo which gives great performances “
However, Jonathan Rea has no remorse whatsoever.” Not the slightest regret, everything about Superbike is more human. This is a championship that gives public access to and close to fans. Here we can manage our personal lives and our supporters and I appreciate that. MotoGP is the highlight, big shows and business but my career path is at Superbike. “
Yep, it looks like even though it doesn’t like the idea that WorldSBK is the second division, Jonathan Rea still respects the MotoGP position and considers this championship to have a difference with WSBK. For the Interview Canal you can read more information on GPOne directly.