Santi Hernández, a veteran crew chief in the MotoGP World Championship, reflects on his remarkable journey and the impact of his riders, particularly Marc Márquez. Hernández's career has spanned decades, working with legendary riders like Álex Crivillé, Valentino Rossi, and Sete Gibernau, but Márquez stands out as the one who left the deepest mark on his career.
Hernández's fondest memories revolve around Márquez's early days in Moto2, where they built a team from scratch. He describes this period as a personal project, a unique and special experience. The young Márquez, almost still a child, captivated Hernández with his ambition, drive, and competitive instinct. Despite his youth, Márquez's ability to convey his feelings and his calm demeanor immediately set him apart.
Hernández emphasizes that Márquez's essence has remained unchanged throughout his career. The nine-time World Champion's competitive DNA and relentless pursuit of excellence have never wavered. While Márquez has evolved and gained experience, his fundamental nature as a racer has stayed the same. Hernández's realization of Márquez's potential during the first Moto2 test at Jerez, where the young rider was just 18, solidified his belief in Márquez's greatness.
Looking ahead, Hernández is preparing for a new adventure with Joan Mir, who will switch teams to ride for Team Gresini on a Ducati. The technical revolution of the new 850cc prototypes and the team changes add an exciting layer to the upcoming season. Hernández remains focused on the present, respecting the decisions of others regarding his future riders. He expresses his commitment to Mir and his anticipation for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the ever-evolving world of MotoGP.
