The opening round of the World Superbike Championship could hardly have gone better for Yari Montella. The Barni Spark Racing Team rider launched his title bid with two victories in as many races at Phillip Island – this after failing to reach the top step of the podium at all last year.
Quoted by the championship’s official website, the rider did not hide his satisfaction with this impressive start: ‘It’s been really incredible for sure; I think it was something that nobody expected. I’m happy; I want to stay focused on the next race but at the same time enjoy the moment’.
Despite the double triumph, Montella is aware that there is a long road ahead in this season, and that’s where his focus lies now: ‘It’s just the first race and I have 22 in front of me. My focus is on Barcelona and the championship is something I am not thinking about. Last year, Barcelona was the worst race of last year but I hope to be better, to show the potential like this. Then, let’s see how it goes’.