A combative rider known for his braking skills, Emilio Alzamora is a product of the Spanish 80cc school. He won the title in this category in 1989 and also in 1990 before stepping up to 125cc in 1994. Introduced into Grand Prix in the following year, Alzamora recorded his first victory in Argentina - the very track where he would be crowned World Champion in 1999. After finishing third in the 2000 season, the Honda rider has decided to move up to the 250cc category for 2001 - after having turned down the opportunity in 1997 - and will be joined in the Axo Gresini Team by Daijiro Katoh.