Joe Roberts, the one-time STK600 national US champion and now a pivotal figure in Moto2, recently shared insights into his journey and mindset in an evocative interview with MotoGP.com. As the series prepares for the upcoming race in Le Mans, Roberts reflects on his path from a promising young talent to a leader in the fiercely competitive world of motorcycle racing.
A Season of Transformation
Roberts’s career, marked by early guidance from the legendary Eddie Lawson, has been a testament to determination and growth. His breakthrough moment came in 2020 at Brno, where he secured his first Grand Prix podium—an achievement that stands out as a turning point in his career. This victory was not just a win on the track but a triumph over the mental and physical demands of racing.
Overcoming Adversity
The 2020 season, like for many, was fraught with challenges for Roberts. After a promising start, the global pandemic forced a pause in the racing calendar, leading to a return that initially saw Roberts struggling to find his form at Jerez. However, his resolve did not waver. “I came to those two Jerez rounds so amped and wanting to prove myself, and it totally flopped in my face,” Roberts recalls, yet this setback only strengthened his resolve.
The Mental Game
Roberts’s approach to racing goes beyond physical skill; his mental strength has been a critical factor in his success. Reflecting on his early experiences and the significant race at Brno, he discusses the importance of mental fortitude and living in the moment. “My mental strength at the time was so strong… I remember in between those races I kept saying to everyone around me, ‘I’m gonna kill it in Brno, I’m gonna fight to win the race,'” he shares.
Leading into Le Mans
As the 2024 season progresses, Roberts finds himself in a unique position, entering the Le Mans race as a World Championship leader—the first American to do so since Nicky Hayden in 2006. This leadership role brings its own pressures, but Roberts is ready, drawing on his past experiences and the lessons learned along the way.
Joe Roberts’s journey in MotoGP is a narrative of resilience, skill, and strategic mental focus. As he leads into Le Mans, his story is not just about racing; it’s about inspiring the next generation of riders and proving that with determination and focus, the top of the world is within reach.