The traditional RFME – Royal Federation of Spanish Motorcycling – gala was recently held at the Casino de Madrid, rewarding champions in different categories. And for the first time in history, creating a new award for the institution, Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta was awarded the Casco de Oro for his contribution to and career in motorcycle racing – having made a huge contribution to the sport both within Spain and internationally.
“I’m proud to recieve this award. A lot of people have worked very hard in order for us to having the motorcycling we do. This award is not only mine, and I collect it in the name of the whole of Dorna,” says Ezpeleta. “The secret has been working with the FIM worldwide and with the RFME on a national level. We will continue to help promote motorcycle racing.”
Another man to receive a warm welcome in the room was Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team), who was awarded as the reigning MotoGP™ World Champion. Just back from the Sepang test, the rider from Cervera is already back in full attack mode for the season: “I’m happy with how everything is going. We’re enjoying it on the bike, but we start from zero again and our rivals are very strong – especially Lorenzo.”
In addition to the special award given to Ezpeleta and Marquez’ award, three more riders were recognised. Joan Mir, 2017 Moto3™ World Champion and Aron Canet, who was third overall. Fellow EG 0,0 rider Alonso Lopez was also recognised after he came third in the FIM CEV Repsol Moto3™ Junior World Championship. This year, he will be a rookie on the world stage.