Story Highlight
– Dr. Angel Charte builds strong relationships with riders.
– Riders prefer his examinations over local medical teams.
– He remains calm during critical accident situations.
– Balances professional duty with personal emotional management.
– Reflects on cases to cope with trauma and frustrations.
Full Story
In the latest installment of an interview by SPEEDWEEK.com’s Manuel Pecino, Dr. Angel Charte, the chief medical officer for MotoGP, shares insights into his relationships with riders and his coping mechanisms following challenging experiences.
Dr. Charte believes that the medical team, alongside physiotherapists and support staff, fosters a sense of security among the competitors throughout the racing season. “You form a direct relationship that is sometimes personal, familial, and professional,” he explains, highlighting the strong bonds built over time. During a recent incident when rider Marco Bezzecchi suffered a fall, he insisted on being examined by Dr. Charte, saying, “You should examine me.” Such situations reflect the trust riders have in him, a trust that extends to fellow racers like Brad Binder and Francesco Bagnaia.
With four decades of experience in hospital settings, Dr. Charte explains the protocols that guide his actions in high-pressure scenarios. He acknowledges the distinct nature of his work compared to general emergency medicine: “When a patient arrives in an emergency room, the situation is serious, but here, I approach accidents very calmly.” The ability to remain composed is crucial, as any tension he exhibits could affect his team’s performance.
In the event of a serious crash, such as when alerted to an unconscious rider at a specific corner, Dr. Charte describes anticipating various possible injuries, from internal damage to severe fractures. “One must not hesitate,” he stresses, emphasizing the importance of being prepared to act decisively to save lives.
The demands placed on medical professionals can be intense. Dr. Charte reflects on the psychological toll the job can exert, stating, “I have to manage my frustrations.” He notes that if he allowed every difficult case to weigh heavily on him, he would have struggled long ago. Upon returning home, he engages in reflection, reviewing cases with his team and ensuring nothing has been overlooked. “It’s vital to disconnect; otherwise, one would be consumed by it all,” he says.
However, Dr. Charte admits that some cases, particularly involving young riders, linger with him. “These are individuals who truly impact you,” he notes with reflection.
His extensive tenure in the MotoGP environment began at the age of 23, around 1979 or 1980. When asked if he has ever sought the help of a psychologist, he acknowledges the complexities of life, both personally and professionally, revealing that he has indeed contemplated this path for support.
