MotoGP, Suppo: “My four-year break is not a problem, we’ll fight for the title”

It seems strange to link Livio Suppo, a man who has characterised the modern era of MotoGP, with the new, but he is new to Suzuki. After many years with Ducati and Honda, Suppo has been called upon to replace Davide Brivio at Suzuki, taking on the role of Team Manager and filling a gap that has proved crucial.

“Unfortunately I’m already 57 - jokes Suppo in an interview shared on Suzuki social media channels – but I have 25 years of experience in motorcycle racing. After all those years, I decided to take a break, but then Sahara asked me if I was interested to return to MotoGP, and I thought this would be a great opportunity to do so".

Many have asked how the years away from the paddock have been for Suppo, and what has pushed him to return, but Livio has clear ideas about both.

“It was strange to be away from MotoGP, especially at first. When you find yourself doing without something you had for so long, it’s bound to be strange. Thinking back, I’m sure that I needed a break, and at the same time it has reignited my desire to work in MotoGP. I think Steve McQueen once said: “Racing is life. Anything before or after is just waiting”. I think that when you have racing in the blood, it’s impossible to forget it, and this means I’m very motivated ahead of Qatar”.

Suppo: "I’m already getting on well with the Suzuki guys"

The new Team Manager faces many challenges of course. The first being to adapt to the current MotoGP.

“I’m not worried about the fact I’ve been away from MotoGP for four years, as twenty plus years of experience are hard to erase. I come to Suzuki just ahead of the first round, but I know the paddock and think I can start out in the right way. Each team has its own characteristics, so first I need to listen and adapt, also bringing something of my own”.

The second is to harmonise with his new family, although things already seem to be doing well.

“When I accepted the offer with Honda, I was curious to understand a new culture and see how my work method could combine with theirs. I can already say that my feeling with the Suzuki world is good, so I’m pleased”.

He need not talk about goals of course, as these are already clear.

“I think Suzuki has made smart choices with its riders. Both have shown they know how to win, and the bike seems to have taken a big step forward compared to last year. The winter tests left the team happy, so I’ll do all I can to help Suzuki be a title contender”.

Translated by Heather Watson

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