His clean, technical style
Wherever he sets his eyes, his wheels follow. Dani has always been an extremely smooth rider, taking turns with the best riding line and great skill. This riding style protects the wheel from wear and allows him to gain precious seconds. Although the samurai can’t always take the line he’d like to on the track (because it’s occupied by another rider, for example), knowing which is the optimal line helps him identify the best alternative. If you can’t take the riding line you want, make your own.
Sportsmanship
One of Dani’s stand-out qualities for his fans, the media, and other riders is that number 26 is a true gentleman when it comes to competition. When he’s on the bike, respect for his fellow competitors and safety on the track are values that he refuses to set aside. That’s why Dani has earned the respect and esteem of everyone in the paddock.
Tenacity
Dani is a demanding rider who always tries to give his all on the track. It doesn’t matter how many times he’s been one step away from success, the Samurai isn’t satisfied with almost achieving something. His tenacity is an admirable quality, even more so after years of pursuing the title, something that he hasn’t achieved in the top category. Having tried time after time alone is a feat that’s difficult to match.
His numbers
31 victories in MotoGP; 153 podiums across all of the categories, the third most podiums in history; and 2940 points, the second highest number of total points in the top class. To that, add three world titles — one in the 125cc category and two in 250cc — as well as 16 consecutive seasons winning at least once race, 12 of which were in MotoGP. All of these numbers paint the portrait of a tremendously successful MotoGP career, and are the foundation that earns him the support of many fans.
Modesty
Even with all of his success, Dani is still the same guy he’s always been. He likes cycling, Japan, water sports, and spending time with his friends. Dani is by no means pretentious, and we can see that in the way he works, how he celebrates his successes, and how he always greets his fans with a smile.
Beloved
It’s precisely because of all of these qualities (and many more) that Dani’s fans love him. Dani has enthralled an entire generation of motorcycling fans, who have shouted in unison: “No corres solo” or “You’re not riding alone!“. The fan club of this rider from Castellar del Vallés is one of the most active, and is legendary on the grandstands at circuits such as MotorLand and Cheste. The red and blue banners with number 26 and the baby samurai are their most beloved symbols. Their support has always been essential for Dani to remind him of the effort and determination that have got him to this point and that, whether he’s on his bike or not, he’s never riding alone.