First it was Yamaha, then Ducati and today it’s finally time for Suzuki’s big day. In Sepang, the Japanese team unveiled the new livery of the GSX-RR. The color scheme essentially follows that of the previous seasons with blue dominating the scene and a touch of yellow. The latter was also chosen by Andrea Iannone to highlight the number 29 on the upper fairing, while Rins opted for a gray 42 that fades into red.
Of course, paying the honor could be nothing more than Davide Brivio. The team manager laid the groundwork after a brilliant 2016 season: “If you win the first time, it’s only natural to do it a second time – he explained – the 2017 season will be one of growth, in which we want to continue on the path we have chosen. Viñales and Espargarò are gone. It is therefore up to Iannone and Rins to keep the colors of the Japanese team high: “Andrea is a top driver. He’s already won and he has everything it takes to ride a bike with the top riders – Brivio pointed out – We believe very much in Alex. He’s a rookie, a young talent, and we want to help him grow with an ambitious project and realize his full potential. “
Expectations will be high and Brivio is aware: “Given Suzuki’s past, there is of course a lot of pressure” – said the team manager – We definitely believe in this project and in the people who are the key to reaching the top. “
From tomorrow the engines will come to life and Alex Rins can’t wait to get on his bike after his injury in Valencia: “I feel good. The pain in my shoulder is a distant memory and I am ready for the new adventure – he commented – I’ve waited a long time for this moment. For the past few months I’ve been training to get back in shape and be back on the Suzuki. “
The Spaniard will now have to cope with the leap into the Moto2 category: “It is certainly not easy. During the first Valencia test, I felt the great power of this bike in my hands – he analyzed – I think that’s what struck me the most, although in the corners I have to work to improve myself. I’m here to learn quickly because all riders are competitive in MotoGP. ”
Next to him is Andrea Iannonewho has to fill in the great footsteps of Maverick Viñales. Expectations are high for the Vasto driver, who was pleasantly surprised when he first went out in November: “I think it was a special event – commented The Maniac – I immediately had a good reaction from the frame and the bike suits my riding style well. “
As soon as the cover was removed, the driver from Abruzzo kissed the Suzuki: “I hope I can win from the first race – he admitted – that’s my goal, but I will also have to reckon with my opponents. “Iannone then held out his hand to his teammate:” Alex is a great talent. He has the same opportunities that I have and he will be a motivator – he said – together we can develop the bike quickly and build a good relationship. “
Naturally, Terada was also the Suzuki project manager in Sepang. His face showed a lot of confidence for the new season, especially after the latest results: “The win in the second year means that the team has worked hard to develop the bike and make it competitive,” said the manager. Over time, Suzuki has adapted better and better to the characteristics of the drivers and I think that a big step forward has been made in the setup.
He quickly advertised the new driver couple: “Andrea is an experienced rider who is very strong and fast – he said – Alex has no shortage of talent. Last season he showed that he is one of the most competitive drivers.“Then he made the challenge:”We can win again – he concluded – The team is competitive and we have everything we need. “