WorldSSP, Caricasulo: "One step back to take two steps forward"

Even without the rumoured regulation change, the 2021 Supersport championship promises to be one to watch, especially in terms of its Italian competitors. The departure of current champion Andrea Locatelli (direction SBK) has been mitigated by the return of Federico Caricasulo who, after a rookie season in the reigning class, is ready to fight for the 600 title once again, lining up with team GMT94.

A good opportunity

“When I saw that the only option was to return to Supersport, I wasn’t particularly happy - admits Federico - but once I had time to think about it, I realised that this is a good opportunity. I think it’s a good idea to take a step back, in order to try and take two steps forward.”

How did the deal come about?

“After Estoril, I tried to understand the possibilities, and there were chances to stay in Superbike but nothing that really convinced me, also because it’s not easy to find a solution when you don’t find out until October that you have no ride. And so that’s how the SSP chapter opened up. I had a few offers to choose from, and the GMT94 proposal looked to be the most interesting. I know I can fight for the title with the team, and it’s a way of staying connected to Yamaha."

Have you already spoken to Yamaha about a possible return to the reigning class?

“For now, we’ve only talked about 2021. If I score the right kind of results then doors might open, so my goal is to win the Supersport title, to try and return to Superbike."

“Rivalry with Cluzel is normal, but I have a good relationship with him”

Waiting for him in the GMT94 garage is top rider Cluzel. Can we expect a duel?

“I think rivalry with your team-mate is all part of the sport, but I’ve always had a good relationship with Jules, he’s a laid-back kind of guy like me. I hope we can both fight for the win, so that we motivate each other, like Randy (Krummenacher) and I did in 2019. We preach peace for now (he laughs)."

Will you need time to adapt to the 600 again?

“I’ve completed so few races in Superbike that I don’t think it will be a problem going back to the 600, also because I’ve continued to train with my R6. I think by the time we get to the first test, probably not before February or March, I’ll have things under control. Until then, I’ll continue to train at my local tracks, I’ll be leaving grooves in the asphalt (he laughs)."

Fatal accidents: track safety can always be improved