Ciro Immobile, currently playing for Besiktas, took the spotlight during the recent Formula 1 pre-season tests, sharing his passion for racing and insights on the upcoming season. The former Lazio captain, known for his prolific scoring, was interviewed by Sky Sport F1, where he expressed satisfaction with his football career, saying, "Sto vivendo una bella esperienza, sono felice. Il campionato è duro: stiamo cercando di dire la nostra." This indicates his determination to make his mark in the Turkish league.
The tests, held at the Bahrain International Circuit, attracted immense attention not just from motorsport enthusiasts but also from celebrities like Immobile, who discussed how he balances his sporting commitments with his love for F1. He noted, "Guardo più la Formula 1 che la Serie A. Sempre in pole position," admitting his passion for F1 outweighs his interest in Serie A.
On the subject of the Ferrari team, Immobile shared his excitement for the additions of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton and his expectations of Charles Leclerc. "Io come tutti i tifosi Ferrari siamo in attesa di tornare a vincere. Abbiamo preso un 7 volte campione del mondo e quindi le aspettative su Hamilton sono alte." This statement reflects both the pressure Hamilton brings to the team and the hopes of fans who have longed for Ferrari’s return to prominence.
Immobile also expressed concern over the potential dynamics between Hamilton and Leclerc, both prominent figures within the Ferrari setup. "La cosa che mi preoccupa di più è un possibile scontro fra due personalità forti," he stated, showing his awareness of the formidable personalities involved and the challenges they might face as they navigate their roles within the team.
Shifting gears to Serie A, Immobile discussed the current title race, noting how competitive it has become with clubs like Inter, Napoli, and Atalanta all vying for the championship. "Devo dire che è una bella sfida a 3. Con l'Inter e il Napoli che hanno perso punti, l'Atalanta si è inserita. E' un campionato aperto." His take on the competition underlines his competitive spirit and insight as not only an athlete but as someone considerably invested in both football leagues.
Through these comments, Immobile encapsulates the duality of being both established in football yet enthusiastic about his favorite sport, Formula 1. His engagement with motorsports isn't just casual; it indicates how athletes often draw inspiration and motivation from across sporting disciplines. Immobile's dynamic presence during these tests reflects the intermingling of sports cultures, where crossover interests reveal the humanity behind the athletes.
Despite the competitive nature of his professional life, Immobile takes time to appreciate unexpected victories, as evidenced by his remarks on the sport. He recalled Pierre Gasly's surprise win, stating, "Mi piacciono anche le vittorie inaspettate come quelle di Gasly," illustrating how he cherishes the stories and narratives present within the world of F1.
Immobile's participation and involvement during such events provide insights not only for football fans but also offer new dimensions to motorsport enthusiasts. It highlights how athletes, regardless of their specific arena, share passions and frequently draw connections between their experiences.
Looking forward, as the F1 season begins, Immobile remains optimistic both about his football club's prospects and the thrilling competition of motorsport. His voice, alongside those of other athletes and fans, reverberates across both sports, continually merging worlds where football and racing intersect.