Bernardi: "Barni’s decision took the wind out of my sails, now to rebuild my confidence”

Motorsport has many faces, as we know, and at times these can be less than pleasant. During the summer of 2021, Luca Bernardi was a key figure on the production-derived market, after having made a very strong start as a rookie in Supersport. Less than a year and a half later, following injury and a bitter debut in Superbike, the young San Marino rider has decided (or is in part obliged) to take a step back, starting over in the Superbike class of Italian CIV with team Nuova M2.

Luca, how have the last months been?

“It’s been a strange time, let’s say. I was looking for a competitive bike with which to compete in World Supersport or CIV Superbike and my choice fell to the Nuova M2 team, who made me the best offer. Deep down, I was keen to continue with the 1000 bike, so I’m pleased with this decision. I hope to have a good year, with the aim of returning to Superbike”.

You’re getting on the bike of Alessandro Delbianco, perhaps the most charismatic character in CIV Superbike right now.

“Ale has proved that the bike is competitive. I made this decision also based on what he’s been able to do. I hope to get on well with both the team and bike.”

Bernardi: "I didn’t express my full potential"

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Let’s back up a bit. How would you describe your experience in Superbike?

“Well, I definitely gained a lot of experience with the Panigale V4R, despite only completing part of the season. I was sorry not to do the final three rounds, also because I didn’t agree with the team’s decision. They wanted to rescind the contract without even finishing the season, even though I’d scored a tenth-place finish, which I think is a good result in Superbike. I had recovered well from the latest surgery and was starting to have more confidence and give useful feedback to the technicians, so I didn’t appreciate Barni’s move at all.”

What did you learn from your time on track?

“The Superbike is a very stiff bike, which transmits a lot to the rider. As I’ve said, in the later stages I learned to give the team clearer indications, which I think can help me in the future. I really liked the bike, but I know I didn’t express my full potential, another reason why I’m sorry things went the way they did”.

How was your brief return to Supersport?

“Not easy, mainly because I didn’t know the tracks or the bike. But it was a good way to continue riding, rather than staying home, so I can only thank team CM for giving me the opportunity”.

Less than two years ago, you had a number of “world” offers on the table, while now you’re returning to CIV. How do you explain this?

“It’s hard to say. The Barni team’s decision to end our collaboration took the wind out of my sails a bit, I can’t really give you any other explanations”.

What’s your main aim now?

“I need to get my confidence back, for my own good. I think I was quick with the Superbike this year but, that aside, I want to complete a high-level season, getting back to the positions that count. I need stability.”