Gresini back 'Feem' to make podium finish

After five years with Spanish team SAG, the 22-year-old Ratthapark, whose career best is a fourth place in the Dutch Grand Prix two years ago, enters his sixth season of the four-stroke 600cc division under a new banner of Italy-based Thai Honda PTT Gresini racing. 

Last year Ratthapark endured his worst campaign since his 2007 debut, finishing a lowly 30th with only four points from 17 races after crashing out on several circuits. The poor result led to growing calls in the local media for a change of team following years of underachievement. 

The Chon Buri native declined to blame his former team for his forgettable campaign last term, but believes his chance with the ultra-professional Gresini will revitalise his bid for a first podium finish. 

“Last year there were so many problems. Things started badly even before I embarked on my campaign, with a serious motorbike accident in my hometown. The injury I sustained affected my performance throughout the season.

“However, I feel much better now. My health has improved and I feel no pain anymore. I’m much better prepared for the new season than last year. We have already had two pre-season testing sessions in Valencia and Jerez, Spain. My lap times have greatly improved,” said Rattapark, who also revealed he would leave for Italy next Monday to continue his preparations for April’s season-opening race in Qatar.

Fausto Gresini, manager and owner of Gresini team, believes Rathapark’s potential combined with his team’s capacity are a recipe for success on the track.

“I believe Ratthapark has the potential to become a successful rider. With our own experience on the circuit, we can help him make Thailand proud with a first podium place.

“As he is now a member of our ‘family’, we will look after him. He’ll undergo a specially tailored training programme to ensure he is perfectly prepared for the new season. We want to push him onto the podium and make him a role model for young Thais,” Gresini told a press conference yesterday. 

Along with its ongoing support of Ratthapark, AP Honda also unveiled four more Thai riders who will benefit from its expanded backing for Thai motor sports this year. Ratthapark’s younger brother, Ratthapong, and Thitipong Warokorn will compete in the Asia Road Racing Championship, while Apiwat Wongthananon and Kanathat Jaiman will race in the Honda Asia Dream Cup.

“Apart from supporting Ratthapark, AP Honda is also backing other Thai riders in regional competitions this year. This will help the young Thai riders to improve to an international standard. We hope they will gain recognition for the country and move on to the bigger tournaments in the future,” said Chiaki Kato, AP Honda president.