Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda) sat down with the Telegraph ahead of lights out for the Octo British Grand Prix, talking everything from motivation, racing on into the future and what he think about hanging up his leathers – with a few extra-insightful highlights.
It seems fans can breathe easy for the moment on the idea of Crutchlow leaving the grid – but he does know that after, there will have to be something to keep the wheels rolling:
Cal Crutchlow: “I doubt I’d just sit there… I’d go out cycling. You cannot go on forever in this game. I think I can do a few more years for sure – how long I want to go on for I don't know. I have some small hands in business and investments now, and I will probably continue to. There was one thing I always wanted to do and that is the day I retire not having to think about going to work the next day. I don't think I would go on TV because you have to travel and I think I would be sick of it by that point. A few years down the line it might be different!”
So it sounds like the Brit isn’t afraid of life after racing – and for good reason:
CC35: “I’m not afraid of it. I would be afraid to think that I hadn’t achieved what I could have or want to. That's why I don't set myself goals that are unachievable. But I have already achieved them to be honest and I’m not worried to the extent that I’m scared to stop. I’ve won races in every series I have been in.”
Achievable goals have given the rider from Coventry some serious silverware – but that, as with the fame and fortune and everything else, isn’t the key motivation. What is? Something much simpler.
CC35: “Did I do this to be famous? No. I do it because I love the sport of riding a motorcycle. I don't want to feel like a rock star, I want people to enjoy the racing and that's what I’ve always said: I want people to enjoy watching motorcycle racing. It doesn't matter which rider. As long as we can put on a show and we can enjoy it as well, then that’s what I want. I also want people to ride motorcycles. I didn't do this for the fame or for people to come and pat me on the back. That's not to say I’m unappreciative of that, at all. The fans and friends say ‘well done’ all the time and I’m very appreciative, but I don't race for fame.”
Nevertheless, fame has found him - but for very good reason. That reason, alongside 22 others raring to create another spectacular showdown, will be lining up for the British GP on Sunday at 15:30 (GMT +1).