World Superbike Interview: Leon Haslam
The fantastic World Superbike 2010 season just started with a sensational race in Phillip Island and we just can’t wait to go to Portimao to get our second round later on this month.
The very first heat of this year saw at the top of the podium the #91 machine ridden by Leon Haslam, the same guy that has been displaying top form since the beginning of the pre-season tests.
In Race 1, with his works Alstare Suzuki ride, Leon took his first ever WSBK win and he’s now the Championship leader…and he looks highly motivated to let this leadership stay as long as it can.
First race is done, you showed your talent and your will to win. How do you feel about that?
Leon Haslam: Really good, really happy to get my first win and my feeling with the team is good. I am now looking forward to the next race.
The 2010 Championship looks like a very hard one, lots of crown contenders especially from Britain. Is this going to let you push even more?
Leon Haslam: Yes for sure, it always makes you give even more because not only do you want to beat your team mate but also to be the top Brit is very important.
Finally you have got an official ride and the Alstare is a really great team to ride with. Plus the GSX-R K10 looks like an impressive bike. Where do you think you can both aim in the season? Plus, who do you think are going to be the hardest riders to beat in this season?
Leon Haslam: I think there are many riders who can win races and I am definitely one of the strongest. I think Haga and Fabrizio are very strong also. My aim is always to win.
Tell us a bit about your racing habits, how do you prepare yourself for a race and what are your “rituals” if there are any?
Leon Haslam: I just like to sleep before each session and race. I listen to music but that’s really the only thing I do really. I try not to have superstitions.
How is your relationship with your father? I think it was pretty emotional for him too in Race 1 in Phillip Island. Is he going to be at your side throughout all the season?
Leon Haslam: My dad is very important to me, he is more like my brother and best friend. We do many fun things together at home when we are not racing. He is a fantastic help at the races too. He comes to all of them and all the tests too.
Where does the # 91 come from?
Leon Haslam: I used to race under 19 when I was doing motocross. I lost 2 championships by breaking my leg under this number, when I came back 19 was not available and I had to run 91 and I won that race so I have kept it ever since.
What are the secrets of Phillip Island? Do you have a favourite race track? If any, where are the crucial points?
Leon Haslam: Phillip Island is my favorite as it is very fast and flowing and I love this kind of circuits. Assen is also a favorite for the same reason.
Any technical advice that you have for the WSBK fans, in terms of riding style, braking points or race tactics?
Leon Haslam: You must be more defensive at the end of a race, something I have learned from race 2. Don’t worry about other’s style, race your own race. It’s important to have a little in reserve for the last five laps.
Tell us a bit more about you, what do you like to do when you have some free time or other interest beside WSBK?
Leon Haslam: I do a lot of trailing at home, also enduro and cycling. I train a lot so anything that is challenging and keeps me fit.
We heard that you dedicated your first win to your beloved dog. Pretty amazing, but we would’ve done the same thing if we were you!
Leon Haslam: We got Rockey and Blacky when I was 8, I remember picking them up. They are 19 now and Rocky was a bit worse than Blacky so it was expected. Blacky is still with us though. They have both had a very good life, very free and loved.
Well Leon, we really thank you for your time and we wish you all the best for this great WSBK season!
Leon Haslam: Thanks to all my Fans
