Feem prepares for life with new team in Italy

After five seasons on the world stage with SAG, Ratthapark’s stint with the Spanish team came to an end last season when the Thai rider’s camp decided to move on for the sake of his career.
The 23-year-old is relishing the opportunity to work with the renowned Italian team, where top riders including the late Marco Simoncelli have preceded him.
“I never felt as confident as this before the start of a new season. The injury from my last campaign is behind me,” said the Chon Buri native, referring to the crash with Marc Marquez at the Australian Grand Prix. “I was able to rest during the offseason and I feel totally recovered. I’m now 90percent ready but need to lose a bit of weight.
“There was no problem at all in the move from SAG to Gresini. But training in Italy right now is ruled out due to the winter conditions. So I’m practising at the Bira Circuit in Pattaya, though the track is crowded as it’s open to both cars and motorbikes.”
AP Honda director Alaksh Phornprapha, who has looked after Ratthapark’s interests in world championship campaigns since 2007, says there are still minor issues to be sorted out with Gresini.
“There are just a few small details remaining before we can reach the agreement. At the end of this month I will take Ratthapark to Italy to find him a place to stay,” said Alasksh.
“Last season, Feem’s performances were below par due to injury problems. But this year I think he can bring joy to Thai fans with his results. Maybe we will see Feem claim his first podium finish this time out.”