MotoGP, Mir: “I react badly to criticism, sometimes I don’t recognise myself”

There’s no longer a number one on Joan Mir’s suit or fairings, the rider now embarking on a new chapter in his career. After his 2020 title and the highs and lows of 2021, the Spaniard arrives in Malaysia keen to be a frontrunner with the Suzuki.

“What do I need in order to fight for the title? I hope to find out during these tests (he laughs). We’ve shown that Suzuki can be a winning bike and that I can be a winning rider, but it all depends on circumstance. The manufacturer has worked hard over winter – I’d like to be able to fight for pole positions, as well as race wins”.

Joan has given it all when it comes to his winter training, and now he’s ready for this initial test bench.

“I’ve trained like always, though I try to up the intensity each year, as I gain experience. I’ve done a lot of MX and flat track, as well as gym work and karting. The first tests are also important from a physical standpoint, and so we’ll see if I’ve done the right kind of preparation. I feel I have room to improve each year, and I want to exploit that”.

Mir: “I don’t like criticism, but it’s part of the job”

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Over the winter, the Spaniard has had chance to look back at his 2021 season, including some moments of tension that definitely didn’t help.

“I don’t like reading certain comments, though it’s normal that people criticise. I don’t usually react well, in fact sometimes I don’t even recognise myself, but I think I’ll learn from my mistakes. I don’t want to say that I don’t care what people think, because we’re here for them, but I’m young and I don’t like criticism, even if it’s part of the job”.

Lastly, Mir touches on the upcoming test work and who he thinks might be a possible 2022 title contender.

“We have many things to test, although we’re not going to revolutionise the bike. We want to improve in all areas, so we need to be smart and make the most of the two days here so that we have a clearer idea when we get to Mandalika. Title contenders? Marc is one, but I think the main one is Fabio, also simply for the fact he’s the current champion. Many riders have taken steps forward this year, and I hope I’m one of them, so that I can really be in with a shot at the title”.

Translated by Heather Watson

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