Lukashenko: MAZ-SPORTauto victories are ads for Belarus
The victories of MAZ-SPORTauto team are an advertisement not only for MAZ, but for the whole of Belarus – as noted by President Aleksandr Lukashenko during his today’s visit to the Minsk Automobile Plant
Upon arrival at the enterprise, the Head of State visited the territory of the MAZ-SPORTauto team. The latter was established in 2010 as a structural unit of MAZ, and since then, the guys have participated in 54 national and international races – becoming winners or prize holders in 34 of them.
Team leader Sergei Vyazovich reported to the President on the preparation of the vehicles and crews, as well as the living conditions of the team, but Aleksandr Lukashenko began with asking him of why the MAZ team has been less resultful recently. “It's a sport. Staying at the peak all the time is quite difficult.…We have greatly retooled our technical base, and this is also important. We need to slightly change our training and the strategy, and the result will follow,” Mr. Vyazovich assured.
“When we see the Minsk Automobile Plant on screens all over the world, everyone starts guessing what the plant that can leave all other vehicles behind on a highway is. It is our MAZ, it is our pride. This is an advertisement – not only for the manufacture but for the whole of Belarus and its automotive industry. That's my interest,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.
The President noted that serious attention had been paid to the team development – following his instruction. “I asked [Aleksandr Rogozhnik, who is now Ambassador of Belarus to Russia but worked as Industry] Minister to act as the team captain. “Do whatever you want, but help the guys!” I told him then. We now have new [Industry] Minister [Aleksandr Yefimov], and he knows of the situation. He is a young man and a true Belarusian, he wants us to win – so he will be your new captain and help you. We need to pay the necessary attention, so tell me of everything you need,” the Head of State added.
Aleksandr Lukashenko drew attention to the importance of training a decent new generation, “He [Sergei Vyazovich] should prepare three to five [pilots], or even two crews – who would be like him and follow his path when he is retired.”
The Head of State carefully inspected the sports team's vehicles and even expressed his intention to personally conduct a test drive, “I'm looking at your car... It would be interesting to drive it somewhere in the quarry.” Mr. Vyazovich responded immediately, “We'll let you know as soon as we are ready.”
“We need a result. On our part, we will do everything for you!” Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasised.