MotoGP Le Mans: Suzuki exit imminent

Suzuki Ecstar confirmed on Thursday the rumours it’s seeking to quit the MotoGP Championship at the end of the current season.

A statement from the Japanese manufacturer reads:

Suzuki Motor Corporation is in discussions with Dorna regarding the possibility of ending its participation in MotoGP at the end of 2022.

Unfortunately, the current economical situation and the need to concentrate its effort on the big changes that the Automotive world is facing in these years, are forcing Suzuki to shift costs and human resources to develop new technologies.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to our Suzuki Ecstar Team, to all those who have supported Suzuki’s motorcycle racing activities for many years and to all Suzuki fans who have given us their enthusiastic support.

The decision leaves 2020 Champion Joan Mir and teammate Alex Rins looking for alternative options in the premier class, with both having been almost certain to stay on with the Hamamatsu outfit for another term. Spicing up the already open rider market with question marks surrounding the potential extra grid spots soon to be available.