The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing TEAM chose Andrea Iannone to replace Fabio Di Giannantonio at the Sepang GP, which will take place at the Sepang Circuit, Malaysia, 1-3 November.
Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team Director Alessio Salucci confirmed Iannone’s return to MotoGP racing after being judged to have performed well during WorldSBK 2024.
“I am very happy to confirm that Andrea will race with our team riding a Ducati Desmosedici. First of all, Andrea has proven to be in excellent condition; he finished the WorldSBK season in good form and has always remained close to Ducati. In addition, he is a friend “both the VR46 family, both personally and with Rossi,” said Alessio Salucci in an official statement, Monday (28/10).
Iannone will replace Di Giannantonio, who will be sidelined for the remainder of the season after suffering a shoulder injury. It is predicted that Di Giannantonio will only be able to race again in the 2025 season.
Iannone, who has long retired from MotoGP competition, feels challenged to carry out his duties with the VR46 Racing Team.
According to the Italian racer, riding a MotoGP motorbike is a complex challenge and he can’t wait to start this challenge.
“I was honored that the VR46 Team considered me and I felt compelled to take advantage of this opportunity as soon as I received the offer. The challenge was bound to be crazy, complex and important because I had not ridden a bike in this category for years and had not done any testing,” said Iannone.
“I am happy to work with Ducati and the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team, both for a very high level and for the friendship that has connected us for many years,” added the 35 year old racer.
In WorldSBK 2024, Iannone earned a total of 231 points and was ranked eighth with five podiums and one Grand Prix title during this season. (Ant/Z-1)
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Uccio Salucci wife
**Interview with Alessio Salucci, Director of Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Alessio. Exciting news with Andrea Iannone’s return to MotoGP! Can you share what led to the decision to bring him back to the team for the Sepang GP?
**Alessio Salucci:** Absolutely, I’m thrilled to discuss this! Andrea has proven himself during the WorldSBK season, showing remarkable skill and fitness. He finished strong and remained closely connected with Ducati, which reassured us of his capabilities. We believe he deserves this opportunity, and having him with our team feels right both for his talent and for the camaraderie he shares with the VR46 family.
**Interviewer:** It must be rewarding for Andrea after what he’s gone through. How do you think he will handle the pressure of returning to MotoGP?
**Alessio Salucci:** It’s definitely a significant moment for him. The pressure is always there, especially in such a competitive environment. However, I honestly believe that his experience and recent performances provide him with a solid foundation. He knows the bike well and has the support of our team, which will help him manage any challenges he faces.
**Interviewer:** Beyond just racing, what does this return signify for Andrea and the team?
**Alessio Salucci:** This return is much more than just another race; it’s about redemption and reconnecting with what he loves. Andrea has missed MotoGP deeply, and this is a chance for him to show his skills on the big stage again. For our team, it’s also a chance to showcase our commitment to our riders and to the sport. We’re rallying behind him, and it’s a reward not only for his hard work but also for the loyalty he has shown to Ducati and the team.
**Interviewer:** Moving forward, what are your expectations for Andrea in the upcoming race?
**Alessio Salucci:** Our expectations are straightforward: we want him to perform to the best of his abilities and enjoy the process. We’re not setting any unrealistic goals, but we believe he can be competitive and aim for a good finish. The key is to keep building confidence and keep enjoying racing. We’re all excited to see how he performs!
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Alessio. It sounds like an exciting time for Andrea and the entire team. We wish you all the best at the Sepang GP!
**Alessio Salucci:** Thank you! We appreciate your support, and we’re looking forward to a great race weekend!
