Kuala Lumpur: Reigning Moto3 world champion David Alonso aims for a strong start in his debut Moto2 season at this weekend's Thailand Grand Prix (GP) at the Chang International Circuit. The 18-year-old rider, who has been promoted to Moto2 this season with the CFMOTO Aspar Team, however, said he cannot set very ambitious goals as he is now competing in a completely different class.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Alonso expressed that his main objective for the Thai GP, scheduled from Feb 28 to March 2, is to complete the race without crashing. Speaking to the media after signing as a brand ambassador for RCB, Malaysia's leading aftermarket high-performance motorcycle parts and accessories provider, he emphasized the importance of finishing the race and learning from more experienced competitors. Alonso remarked, "The first target for the first race is to see the chequered flag (finish the race) and learn from the big boys there. When you jump to a new category, no matter whether you know the track or not, it's a new track."
He acknowledged the challenges of his first season in Moto2 but stressed the need to remain calm and improve with each race. Alonso indicated that preparations have been thorough, with around 200 laps completed in two pre-season tests. The Colombian-Spanish rider also confirmed his full recovery from a shoulder dislocation sustained during training in Cartagena, Spain, last month.
Alonso is one of the most highly anticipated rookies this season, having won the Moto3 world championship last year with a record-breaking 14 victories. His impressive full-season debut in 2023 included securing eight podiums, with four wins, to finish in the top three overall.
The agreement with RCB was signed at Sepang International Kart Circuit, with MKA Group chief executive officer Bruce Lee Cong Quan also present. MKA Group marketing director Marcus Leong highlighted Alonso's passion for racing and commitment to excellence, aligning with RCB's core values. Leong added that the partnership aims to expand RCB's global presence and reinforce the local motorsport community, connecting with riders and fans as part of RCB's 30th anniversary celebrations.