Santi Hernández, a veteran crew chief in the MotoGP World Championship, reflects on his remarkable journey and the impact of his riders, particularly Marc Márquez. Hernández's career has spanned decades, working with legendary riders like Álex Crivillé, Valentino Rossi, and Sete Gibernau. However, it's his time with Márquez that stands out as a defining moment.
Hernández fondly recalls the Moto2 years, especially 2011 and 2012, as the pinnacle of his career. The Moto2 project, built from scratch with Márquez and Emilio Alzamora, felt personal and unique. This period allowed Hernández to witness Márquez's evolution from a teenager to a mature champion, a transformation that didn't alter his core essence.
One of the most striking aspects of Márquez was his competitive instinct and drive for excellence. Despite his growth and experience, Márquez's competitive DNA remained unwavering. Hernández's realization of Márquez's talent came early, during the first Moto2 test at Jerez, where the young Márquez, just 18, conveyed his feelings about the bike with remarkable calmness and insight.
Looking ahead, Hernández is preparing for a new chapter in his career. With Joan Mir switching teams and the introduction of 850cc prototypes, the landscape is changing. Hernández remains focused on the present, working with Mir, and prefers not to speculate on future riders. This approach showcases his respect for the process and his commitment to the current season.
In conclusion, Santi Hernández's journey in MotoGP is a testament to the power of mentorship and the enduring nature of talent. His work with Márquez and the Moto2 project highlights the importance of building a team from scratch and the impact of a rider's competitive spirit. As Hernández moves forward, his legacy in the sport will continue to be shaped by his dedication and the remarkable riders he has worked with.
