MotoGP | Bagnaia on CNN: “Rossi encourages me to always improve”

Ducati MotoGP 2021 – Francesco Bagnaia, fresh from the podium in Austin, is preparing to face the second race on his home circuit, at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, scheduled for October 24th.

The World Championship with only three races to go (Misano, Portimao and Valencia, ed.) is increasingly difficult, but the Ducati rider still believes in it and interviewed by CNN he spoke about the origins of his nickname "Pecco" and the first meeting with Valentino Rossi.

Statements by Francesco Bagnaia CNN on the name “Pecco” and Valentino Rossi

“My sister is only 20 months older than me and when we were little, calling me 'Francesco' was difficult, so she called me Pecco.” – Bagnaia then recalls her first meeting with Valentino Rossi – “I remember the first time I met him very well. We were having dinner and… Vale together with our coach entered the restaurant. I was very nervous to meet my idol, it was strange to see him in front of me and shake his hand. Now we are good friends and talk a lot about my Championship. Over the last month he has encouraged me to always be the best and improve every time.”