Toni Elias Drives Rally Car, Visits LCR HQ

Winning the world champion title comes with other commitments a rider has to fulfill, including promotions, celebrations and conferences, among others. So is the case with LCR Honda MotoGP Team rider Toni Elias, who won the Moto2 world title earlier this year.

The Spaniard has recently been involved in the 31st edition of Monza Rally in Milan. Elias, who has driven a rally car for the first time in his career, has challenged his two wheels competitors like Simoncelli and Iannone taking his Grande Punto Abarth to 28th in the Super2000 class and 70th overall.

Before flying back to Spain, Elias has also visited his new Team Manager Lucio Cecchinello at the Team technical division to meet the whole staff and to learn some LCR team history.

“Lately I am travelling a lot for interviews, ceremonies etc... and I like that but I needed a break and the Monza Rally was the right opportunity. That was my first time on a rally car but I enjoyed a lot. I think I have found a new game to play! Then before going back home I have decided to visit Lucio and the Team at their tech division,” stated Elias.

“I was impressed about the atmosphere and the history you can feel in that place: it is full of photos, awards, motorbikes in every corner and all of the staff (technicians, hospitality staff, administration and commercial personnel and graphic department guys) have been very friendly and warm with me," added the 27-year-old rider.

Toni is the third member of the Elías family to compete in motorcycle racing. He will return to the MotoGP grid in 2011 with Team LCR, riding a Honda RC212V.