After many rumours, it is now official that Suzuki will leave MotoGP at the end of 2022. The manufacturer’s decision shocked everyone in the pits, from the other manufacturers to their team riders. Suzuki is currently in talks about its decision with Dorna Sports.
With Suzuki stepping away from MotoGP, two spots are now open on the grid for a new manufacturer or Independent Team to take.
The Reason For Suzuki’s Decision
Suzuki says the current economic situation is the primary reason for the decision. Furthermore, the company says that its focus will be more on keeping up with the automotive world’s big changes. Suzuki will try to shift its costs and human resources to develop new technologies to stay relevant. The company wants to keep costs in check. Hence, Suzuki says it does not want to spend millions of dollars on the sport. The company intends to develop two-wheeler technology instead. Thus, Suzuki will be able to sell more two-wheelers globally.
What Does This Mean For Its Racers?
Suzuki’s decision has not gone well with its MotoGP team. However, they have no choice but to accept it and move on. However, the decision leaves the team’s riders – Alex Rins and Joan Mir, without a team for 2023.
However, there’s still hope. Alex Rins recently confirmed that they are in talks with four manufacturers for a place in the 2023 season. These manufacturers are Aprilia, Honda, KTM and Yamaha.
Repsol Honda Team Manager Alberto Puig confirmed that both Alex Rins and Joan Mir contacted Honda earlier in the weekend. Additionally, Aprilia Team Racing Manager Paolo Bonara also confirmed that talks are underway with some teams. Aprilia Racing is also exploring what possibilities there might be for an Independent Team using its RS-GPs.
Where will Joan Mir and Alex Rins go for 2023 remains uncertain. However, one thing for sure is that the two Spaniards are exploring every possibility.
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