Cooper Webb talks about the MXoN and Team USA
By Infront Moto Racing on 22nd Sep 16
Team USA dont need to worry about not having the right team captain in 2016, as AMA 250cc champion Cooper Webb returns to the MXoN after a strong showing in 2015. Here he talks about what he expects from the team, and what he learnt from being involved at Ernee last year.
"The team dynamic is really good. We all know each other well, and it's a team race and both my team-mates are excited, as am I. I think people will be surprised how well this team does.
"I think when it comes down to it, if you have three guys that want to win, then it's hard to lose. We're all in shape. We're all grinders. We all do what we need to do, so I think that'll be the biggest thing. Obviously, you have to have luck and you have to be consistent. Last year, we were as solid as we can be. We had three guys that wanted to win and wanted to do it. It's tough when you have a guy that doesn't really want to do it.
"I fit the roll as team captain. I have a year of going to the MXoN, and Alex and Jason are rookies. I was bummed when Eli didn't race the MXoN. I have been watching Jason and the progress he has made is good. The team has been riding together, and we didn't do that last year, so that makes the team bonding much better.
"I got called originally to do the MX3 class which—at first, I really wanted to do it on 250's [MX2] because I feel really comfortable and strong, but at the same time, it's a team event, so you have put your team first. It's not all about yourself. When Eli [Tomac] pulled out, I got the call on Thursday night from Roger Decoster, and he said, "Hey, we're going to get Jason [Anderson], and what do you want to do?" I said, "I want to be team captain in MX1." I feel like I deserve it, and I want to go out and get some revenge from last year and race the best of the best. I've been riding my 450 a lot during the week, so I feel really good on it. The bike's come a long way, so I'm excited. I think it gives me a huge motivation which, at the end of the year, it's really hard to find that. I think we have a really good chance. I don't see why we can't go over there and win.
"I think this year it's a similar situation to last year. The bike is new, all new frame, clutch and other stuff. I have had less time on the bike, but feel more comfortable than last year. It is a lot different, I know what to expect, and I have learnt from last year. I know what to expect and while I haven't spent a lot of time on the 450 I know what I like and what I don't like. It was pretty tough last year.
"Obviously for myself I want to win and show people what we can do. Last year it was difficult, because France was the best team, and it was in France. This year there are more teams and not one country that is the favorite."
