Aegerter annoyed by lack of WorldSBK interest, feels nationality plays key role

Swiss rider Dominique Aegerter believes had he been of American, Indian or Turkish nationality, then more WorldSBK opportunities would be available. 

The 2021 WorldSSP champion claimed ten wins en route to the title in what was his rookie season, however, due to a lack of WorldSBK interest the Ten Kate Yamaha rider decided to remain with the team for a second season.

Surprisingly Aegerter was not even considered for the same seats that fellow WorldSSP riders Luca Bernardi and Philipp Oettl ended up receiving (Barni Racing Ducati and GoEleven Ducati), which is why the former Moto2 rider feels his Swiss nationality is viewed upon in a negative way. 

Speaking to Speedweek.com, Aegerter said: "I couldn't win much more and had a great season. Okay, two or three times I had bad luck with red flags and at the beginning of the season I stumbled a little because we didn't have enough engine power and maybe there was a lack of experience in the team. 

“But of course, I'm 31, an old man for a racing driver. But there were riders in the Superbike World Championship last year who were 36 and 38 years old, I'm a few years younger than them. 

“Still, I didn't get the chance and was always the B option. That pissed me off a bit. Nobody is interested in me as a Swiss. If I were an American, Indian or Turkish, then I would clearly have more chances.”

Although Randy Krummenacher did have one season in WorldSBK (2017), the now WEC rider (World Endurance Championship) was another Swiss who won the Supersport title (2019) but was without a Superbike opportunity for the following season. 

Should Aegerter have another strong season in WorldSSP, one where he contends for the title or even wins it again, then it will be interesting to see whether WorldSBK interest follows.

Aegerter will once again be competing on two fronts in 2022 after agreeing to remain with the Intact Dynavolt GP team in MotoE.