MotoGP teams Suzuki have expressed interest in running a satellite squad in the past to help with development of the GSX-RR. They were believed to have been close to putting pen to paper with the Marc VDS team twelve months ago,
Since Suzuki’s return to MotoGP in 2014, the brand’s executives have been regularly told that they are “working” to launch a satellite team. A few years ago, contacts with LCR were even mentioned, but it did not succeed.
For several months, the grid of teams seems to be complete for 2020 – it still lacks Reale Avintia Racing to confirm its deal with Ducati – and the rules do not allow the creation of a new team. But for the future, the opportunities remain open.
Team Suzuki Ecstar Project Leader Shinichi Sahara said that the Japanese factory were ready yet to launch a satellite team when questioned, but he admitted that series bosses Dorna have pushed them to add two more bikes to their stable as soon as possible.
“Of course, we are thinking about the possibility of building a satellite team and how it could be organized. So far we have not reached a final conclusion and we will not have a satellite team next year. But after, for 2021, this remains an option we are studying.” Sahara said.
Suzuki and Aprilia are the only two brands to have only one MotoGP structure. But the good results of Suzuki’s Alex Rins, who is fighting for second place in the MotoGP standings could push the interest of sponsors and MotoGP players for a second Suzuki team.
Having a satellite team in addition to an official team is a cost and expense. But it is also an advantage for the manufacturers because they increase in number, work more to the development of the prototypes, get more returns from the drivers.
