In the racing world, the Crew Chief covers many roles, all of which are crucial. He (or she) is first of all corner men in assisting the rider ‘ringside’, in the pits, where he translates words and data into solutions to improve competitiveness. By doing so, he often becomes a consultant, strategist and confessor.

It is essential to establish a perfect harmony between rider and Crew Chief, but it often takes time. For this reason, it has become common practice for many riders to take their trusted technicians with them when switching teams. Chaz Davies made no exception with Alberto Colombo, also known as ‘Moro’, who has been by his side since 2012. The 48-year-old from Lombardy, ahead of his fifth season together with the Welsh rider, shares some insight on their professional relationship.

How did you and Chaz start to work together?
We were on the same team in 2011, but I wasn’t his technician. During the tests I gave him many pointers, which he evidently liked, because we started working together the following year.

How has the relationship evolved over the years?
We became close friends. We often talk, even away from the tracks. There’s a total and mutual trust between us but we don’t often see each other because we live far away from each other. Basically, we just meet on track, where there is a competitive tension and it’s difficult to develop a more personal relationship.

Professionally, what kind of connection do you have?
A very serene one. We have never had issues. Probably, Chaz trusts me. He was a strong rider even before we started to work together but I’d say that, since we have worked together, the results speak for themselves.

What’s the cornerstone of your approach to racing?
We always work methodically, making a progression. We took upon a challenge with Ducati, working hard to claim a victory with the Panigale R. Chaz was the first to take to the top of the podium (Aragon 2015, Race 2), making it a title contender.

In your opinion, what are Chaz Davies’ strengths?
He’s extremely professional, also away from the track. He never takes a break. He lives to ride and is very prepared physically. He has no distractions and is very humble - and he gives his best during the races. He’s very determined and capable of thinking more clearly than most riders when racing. He seems even stronger in Race 2, when other riders usually get tired.

Any weaknesses?
It’s not a weakness per se, but he’s not super fast during the practice sessions. After all, you need to take risks to do that, and I think he has found the right balance.

What are the characteristics of an ideal rider, from a Crew Chief perspective?
There’s no such thing as the perfect rider, but it’s crucial to be polite and respectful with the team and to be loved in the pits. A rider may not be the fastest out there, but has to be a good person and stay humble. Human qualities, which Chaz possesses in abundance, are the starting point. They allow the team to gladly make sacrifices. It’s a subtle yet essential thing. The rider influences the team: his charisma and personality make the difference.

Chaz is known as a particularly meticulous rider. How does that shape your work after practice?
He’s very precise and follows specific schemes. We often stay in the pits until late, briefing. There are only a few riders capable of doing this kind of work without losing focus or motivation.

What’s your evaluation of last season?
Very positive. We grew constantly. We were already competitive at the start, but after mid-season we made a decisive step forward. The progression between Misano, Laguna Seca and Sepang was memorable. And things could have gone even better if Giugliano was capable of racing for the whole season, because he could have given a crucial contribution towards development.

Away from the track, what kind of person is Chaz?
Very quiet and softly spoken. He lives like us ‘humans’ do, which is rare for a rider. He often takes some time before a race being a tourist, documenting himself and blending into the local cultures. He also has a passion for coffee. He has bought a professional machine and started to take barista classes.

Interview courtesy of Aruba.it Racing – Ducati