 Born in Dos Aguas, Valencia Province, Barberá began his World Championship career at the age of 15 in the 125cc world championship, under the guidance of Jorge Martínez "Aspar", who teamed Barberá and fellow youngster Ángel Rodríguez up with the experienced Pablo Nieto.In his first season Barberá established himself as the most promising rider of the three and in he broke through, with his first victory at Donington Park making him one of the youngest riders ever to win a Grand Prix.A strong finish to the season saw him take third place in the championship and he signed up for a title challenge with Seedorf Racing in .