Meet... Javi Castro | Design Manager

1. How did you start with the MT Group? When was it?

After winning the "Young and Living in Extremadura" Entrepreneur Award, I began designing helmets for racers, including those for the MT brand. In 2014, Javier proposed that I join the company with the goal of creating an in-house design department. Inspired by his vision, I packed my bags and headed to Cartagena.

2. What do you enjoy most about your work?

The feeling of being deeply involved in the creative process of helmet design brings together two of my passions: design and motorsport. Additionally, having the chance to meet childhood idols like designer Aldo Drudi has been incredibly special for me.

3. Do you have any cherished memories from your work?

One of my most cherished memories is seeing Juanfran Guevara’s helmet design, which I worked on, on the podium at the 2017 Moto3 race in Mugello. Achieving that milestone was a significant moment for the company.

Since I was very young, we would go to watch the races at Estoril, and the ultimate gift in my house was always a motorcycle. For my family, it’s a source of pride to see my career and growth in this shared passion.

4. What do you like to do in your free time after work?

I eagerly dive into other activities when I step away from the computer, driven by curiosity and a passion for learning. I take ceramic classes to let my inspiration flow, sewing classes to learn about fashion design, or cooking workshops to spark my culinary creativity, among many other things.

5. And during vacations?

We always try to travel. Whether it's to discover new places—preferably on a motorcycle—or returning home to enjoy time with family and friends, I’m fortunate to come back to especially beautiful places like the Valle del Jerte or Cartagena.

6. The MT Group has been protecting motorcyclists for over 50 years. What does it mean to you to work for a company like this?

It’s a dream come true. As a child, I decorated my helmet and motorcycle with stickers and personalized drawings to be like Valentino Rossi. I loved his designs! Today, I’m a helmet designer, and I work to make a product that’s essential for the safety of riders even more appealing.

7. Do you have any role models or people who inspire you in your daily life?

My father, a mechanic with a deep passion for motorcycles and F1, passed that love on to me from a young age. We would go to watch the races at Estoril, and the most cherished gift in our home was always a motorcycle. For my family, it's a source of pride to see my career and growth in this shared passion.

THE CHALLENGE | Imagine you were called up to join the Selección Espa?ola de Fútbol (SeFutbol) for the UEFA EURO 2024 , and you had the chance to add four teammates to the squad. Who would you choose, for which positions, and why?

Javier Tomás in the goalkeeping position… for his anticipation skills.

Paqui Ros in defense… organization is her forte.

Germán López Conesa in midfield… he knows the playing field well.

Alberto M. Murcia García as a forward… for being a leader in my team.