The Red Bull KTM Ajo Moto3 rookie discusses adapting to the Moto3 World Championship and explains his goals for the rest of the year.

In the first half of the 2019 season the main objectives of Red Bull KTM Ajo Moto3 rider, Can Öncü, simply were to learn as much as possible and to familiarise himself with new tracks. Racing in his first full season as a World Championship rider, the Turkish youngster reflects on the nine Grands Prix so far this year and looks ahead to the upcoming rounds after the summer break.

How would you summarise 2019 so far?
“It has been a challenging start. It’s my first season as a full time World Championship rider so, in the first few races, everything was new. Besides, it was difficult for me to adapt to the bike and the different tracks. However, in the last four contests we took a big step forward, as both the team and I continue to work harder than ever. In Germany we managed to get into the points and, without doubt, that was something very positive, which gave us all some extra motivation.”

What was the best moment for you from the nine Grands Prix you raced at this year?
“For me, the best moment was Sachsenring and getting those first points of the season. Throughout the weekend we had a good pace and speed. We worked very hard, did everything we could and, in the end, we got our reward. It was positive for the whole team.”

What points do you want to improve on after the summer break?
“I have to continue adapting to the category and the way of working that is required in the World Championship. I need to become more familiar with my bike and I have to improve my riding style on it, so I will give my best after the summer break to do that. I know we can do it, but it requires time and dedication. We are taking it step by step.”

What is the objective for the rest of the season?
“My goal is to finish in the points at the most possible races. It will be really important to keep working in the way we have been and give our 100% every time we go out to the track. At the same time, I want the team to be happy and I plan on enjoying the opportunity of racing in the World Championship. I’m sure that, in the second half of the season, we will take another step forward.”