Kiwi Rider November Vol.2 2022 | Page 96

ROAD NEWS
ranks in 2019 too , showing flashes of excellence in several GPs . As the world reeled with the emerging pandemic and the MotoGP calendar was left in tatters , Suzuki pulled together and remained focused on racing goals – something which was evident in their month long stay in Qatar at the start of the season , to protect staff and concentrate on the project . After a slightly rocky start to the season , things soon started to look up for the blue team . Joan Mir put together a sensational season , showing consistency and maturity throughout the year to be crowned MotoGP World Champion and put Suzuki back in the spotlight after 20 years . Coupled with Alex Rins ’ impressive form which saw him finish third in the standings , this was truly the ‘ comeback ’ year for Suzuki - a feat made even more special as the factory celebrated 100 years since their founding , and 60 years in racing . Entering 2021 as reigning champions , and with the tried and tested line-up of Rins and Mir , the goal was once again to contend for podiums , wins , and the best championship positions possible . What the team lacked in luck that year , they made up for in tenacity . Rins had a tough year , although a second place at his beloved Silverstone gave a much needed boost . Mir clocked six podiums through the year , and his consistency gained him third place in the standings at the close of the season .
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