Cycling: Time for an interview with the stars of the Cannondale Racing Team - Manuel Fumic and Marco Fontana. How do you see the World Championships in Hafjell in retrospect, where both were among the outstanding drivers?
Marco, congratulations on the bronze medal. Are you surprised it went so well?
“The World Championship was a very big focus for me and the whole team. As the season didn't go the way I wanted, I focused on this one big race and luckily everything went smoothly and well.”
Manuel, are you disappointed that you didn't make it onto the podium?
“Since I had Marco on the podium with the bronze medal, it wasn't that bad. He got the bronze medal out of 3 possible medals and that is a very good result for the team. Of course I had other goals.”
How important is the World Cup for you?
Marco: “The World Championship is a one-shot race and it's the biggest of the season. Of course the World Cup with its 6 or 7 races is just as important. At the World Cup you get a medal and the winner gets the rainbow stripes and will wear the jersey for a year. That's the biggest thing.”
Manuel: "Usually the World Cup is at the end of the season and you can prove yourself again."
How did you prepare for the World Championships in Hafjell?
Marco: “After the World Cup in Windham, we both went to Livigno to do altitude training there. We spent 10 days there and then left for the last World Cup in Meribel, which is also at a higher altitude.”
Manuel: “Mentally, it was good to train with Marco. This enabled us to prepare better for the race.”
Is there anything else you would like to tell your fans?
Marco: "Many thanks for the support. Even if we're not doing so well, you're there - we feel that and it makes us proud."
Manuel: “Our fans follow us and don't just look at the results. That motivates us and it's really good to know that we have such fans. Thanks very much!"
Thank you for the answers!
Source: Cannondale Racing