Unbeaten during qualifying and semi-finals for the 2017 MotoGP™ eSport Championship, Spaniard “mmandzukic17” had been the clear favourite to run home with a win in the Main Event. A ferocious battle ensued, and the Spanish/Italian rivalry was put to the test. The Las Palmas local made the second step of the podium - and history - as the runner-up of the world's top motorcycling eSport event, and gave his thoughts on the incredible experience that was an eSport Grand Final in Valencia.
What were your thoughts on having the Championship final aired live around the world? Was it the first time you have been involved in something like this?
mmandzukic17 - To me personally, it was really exciting and gave me the enthusiasm to do it well. However, it also meant I was quite nervous because I knew how many people were watching me! Luckily it went well. And yes, it was the first time I had been involved in one of these championships and that made me more nervous, but for the first event it was practically perfect!
Did it make a difference to have your brother qualify for Valencia as well?
mm17 - It was extra special to live this experience with my brother but he was also my main rival, and I always try to stay ahead of him.
Do you think that Trasteve73 won the race with tactics, speed or luck?
mm17 - He won by speed and a lot of perseverance, although I made a few errors, he was the best. It was a deserved win!
Will you stay in touch with any other the other finalists? As friends or to train with them online etc?
mm17 - Yes, I hope so, we made a good group and I hope to see them all next year. I have good relationship with everyone.
What was the most difficult thing for you during the 2 days of the event in Valencia?
mm17 - The moments before the two races, were moments of many nerves and have a little bad time.
Would you be excited to see the MotoGP eSport Championship to grow even bigger than this year?
mm17 – Hopefully yes - because I loved it! I am sure that it can and will grow a lot more in the coming years.
