Raul Fernandez has been one of the standout names during pre-season, installing gelling with Aprilia's RS-GP and his new team. It's a hufe year for the sophomore as he looks to deliver on the promise that saw him finish runner-up in the Moto2™ World Championship in his rookie year back in 2021. So, ahead of the RNF Aprilia team launch on Monday, let's get to know MotoGP™'s number 25 a little better. Here are 10 things you probably don't know about him:
1. If he hadn't become a rider, Raul has confessed that he had dreamed of becoming an astronaut. Or, failing that, he said he would have liked to have become an engineer, a job that could allow him to stay involved in his current and true passion.
2. Although it hasn't been widely publicised within the paddock, Raul has his own nickname among his closest circle. His nearest and dearest call him 'Perico'.
3. Like most riders, Fernandez has his own particular superstitions when it comes to numbers. His lucky number is 3 and, although it may not seem like it, it's linked to his current number. Initially, he wanted to use the number 23, but he was given 25. From then on, he has made a name for himself with that number, which he has tattooed just above his right elbow.
4. Apart from receiving the love of family and friends, Raul also has the opportunity to feel supported by his pet, a rabbit named Hulio.
5. Like other MotoGP™ stars, the Spanish rider has many sporting hobbies that allow him to strengthen his physical condition without giving up fun. He loves cycling, which he trains regularly in the cycling environment that exists in the paddock. He has also participated in some MTB races.
6. Away from the tracks, he's often doing motocross or skiing, and he recently considered the possibility of venturing into the growing world of paddle tennis. His multidisciplinary talent extends to more horizons, and he has tried his luck playing football with other riders on occasion. Obviously, his talent with the ball does not reach the levels of geniuses like Brazilian Ronaldinho, although he does not hesitate to emulate his iconic surfer greeting if the occasion requires it, as shown in the photograph that illustrates this article.
7. As for his idols, Raul has expressed his preferences on more than one occasion. MotoGP™ Legend Valentino Rossi left a great impression on him, while, regarding the current grid, his factory teammate Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) is a great influence. Raul has admitted that he identifies a lot with his compatriot, whom he values highly as a rider. If he had to choose an old rider as a coach, he would opt for MotoGP™ Legend Dani Pedrosa.
8. Completely accustomed to the daily life at the circuits and the movements it involves, the new rider for the CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP™ Team is loved for his charisma, although he is clear about who has been his best friend to date within the paddock: his brother Adrian, also a rider, affectionately known as 'Pitito'.
9. Music plays a key role in the motivation process of the vast majority of athletes, and Raul doesn't seem to be immune to this. His fellow countryman, Melendi, is one of his favorite artists, although he's also a fan of reggaeton and has mentioned on a few occasions that he's a fan of Puerto Rican artist Myke Towers.
10. During the downtime between trips and Grand Prix races, Fernandez also finds time to watch movies or series. 'La Casa de Papel' has been one of his recent weaknesses, while Will Smith is his favorite actor. Beyond the small screen, Fortnite is his choice if he decides to play video games. With many interests, he recently launched his own Twitch channel.