The 2021 MotoGP will once again be marked by the uncertainty of the calendar, COVID-19 pandemic and by doubts about the recovery of Repsol Honda rider Marc Marquez.
Speaking to media, Suzuki Ecstar rider Joan Mir is clear that if Marquez overcomes his injury in time to start the world championship. However, he will be the undisputed favourite again.
“When Marquez won the MotoGP world championship, the following year he was the big favourite. That is probably not my case.” Mir said.
“In 2020 I was champion for consistency and regularity, for having a cool head and knowing how to manage situations, but not for being the fastest.
“I think if Marc recovers and is in the first race, he will be the favourite. He has more titles and experience than me, a very competitive package and when it comes to him.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if after such a beastly injury he won first time. He will be the man to beat and I hope to be up to the task.” Mir added.
In the 2020 MotoGP season, the GSX-RR doesn’t have the most outright performance but its wide operating range, its balanced, rider-friendly character and the team’s focus on all the details allow riders to take it to the limit pretty much every weekend.
“The engines are frozen and that’s always the biggest change from year to year, so I don’t expect many differences.” Mir said.
“But we can change the chassis, the electronics, some things the factory with more room to improve those aspects will do well and I hope that we will be there.” he added.
Based on the schedule, the 2021 MotoGP season to begin with two races in Qatar, preseason testing to commence in first week of March.
