Interview with Tony Cairoli
1. You've made motocross history: what does it mean to you to be a role model for so many young people?
Being considered a role model for young people is a very inspiring realization. I'm proud of everything I've done and achieved in my career, and even more so of the fact that I can be an example to so many young people who dream of reaching the top.
2. Is there a race or moment in your career that you will always cherish?
The race that I will always carry in my heart is the one where I achieved my first GP victory.
3. If you could talk to 18-year-old Tony, what would you say to him today?
I'd tell him to do exactly what he did, without changing his approach, because that's what got him to where he is. I'd tell him to continue on that path, because in the end, it turned out to be the right one.
4. When did you realize you could become a world champion?
I understood this when I arrived in Rome and joined Team De Carli. At that moment, I truly understood what I could achieve with such a strong team at my side: with their experience, the resources they provided me, my talent, and my desire to win. It didn't take long for that "click" to happen that quickly led to my first results—the beginning of all the successes we've achieved together.
5. Was there a rival who pushed you to push your limits?
No, but not because I haven't had strong rivals. It's just that, by nature, I rarely push the limits: I've always handled rivalries on the track well, without ever putting my body or mind at risk.
6. How do you maintain the hunger to win even after so many achievements?
With the great passion I have for this sport and with the desire to win that, for an athlete like me, never fades—and still hasn't faded today.
7. What is your relationship with risk and fear on the track?
Off the track, when I think about the risks of this sport, there's a bit of fear, and there always has been. But my strength has always been that, once I put on my helmet, adrenaline takes over any fear.
8. What does the team mean to you and how important is it to trust the people around you?
For me, a team isn't just a group of people working towards the same goal: it's a family. It's crucial to trust and rely on those around you, especially in a long and demanding career like mine.
9. How do you identify with Airoh's values?
Italianness, quality and dedication.
10. If you had to describe your sporting legacy in one sentence, what would it be?
If I had to say what I leave to this sport, I would say my name—which for me represents perseverance, sacrifice, and, ultimately, glory.
