Suzuki can’t be called a surprise for these winter tests, considering its 9 podiums last year, but no doubt Hamamatsu’s bike has taken another step forward to get on with the thanks to a GSX-RR that appears to have it best rivals to measure matured, like Alex Rins.
“I would say these winter preparations are going well,” says the team manager with a smile Davide Brivio. “We’re pursuing our program. I’m pleasantly surprised at our speed and I’ve seen Alex grow and mature.”
Rins has become the team’s beacon, a responsibility that is no easy task …
“I told Alex he should have been our captain and he does what we asked him to do in the best possible way. In the winter of last year he had already worked hard to make the bike to his taste. Now he has more experience and that guarantees more peace and security. “
If Rins is the captain, what role should Me play?
“First of all, I hope that we will soon have two captains (he laughs). I asked Joan to have fun and play a bike for a year. We are convinced that he has great talent and that he can become a top rider in MotoGP. It’s only a matter of time. “
With Vinales and Rins you did it right …
“Maverick won a race in his sophomore year and Alex made five podiums after being out practically half a season in 2017 due to injury. I don’t know how long it will take me to be competitive, but we have faith in them like him grows.”
Honda, Ducati and Yamaha have official teams with already experienced drivers. Why does Suzuki always focus on beginners?
“We like the idea of growing our drivers at home. I know I have two talented drivers and I think they can both be top drivers. We just need time and we have to be good to get them in shape to bring in where you can reach their full potential. “
Have you ever thought about taking on a driver who is already a champion?
“At the moment, as I said, Our ambition is to win with a driver who has grown with us. I know it’s a more difficult path, but we chose to do it. “
With a satellite team, you can do both …
“We could certainly pursue a different strategy. Both have advantages and disadvantages. A beginner in a satellite team has more composure, but in an official team he can immediately understand the pressure to deal with.“
Could 2020 finally be the year we will see 4 Suzuki on the track?
“It’s too early to say that. I hope so.”
The first GP will take place in less than two weeks. Is your goal to win the race?
“I would definitely like that, but I don’t know if it will be possible because I know how difficult it is against such tough opponents. On the other hand, we got close on a couple of occasions last year, so … why not give it a try?“