The run-up to confirming the MotoGP title for Joan Mir starts from the Qatar GP. So many rivals to watch out for, first of all, box mate Alex Rins.
The most important season for Suzuki and Joan Mir kicks off in two days. The Majorcan rider in fact starts again as the current MotoGP champion, a different situation and in which he finds himself for the first time in his career. We remember, after the Moto3 title there was a change of category. This year everyone against #36, starting with box mate Alex Rins, perfectly fit after the problematic shoulder injury that affected his 2020. We also remember that the team from Hamamatsu, the only one not to have changed drivers, was also the only one to remain in Qatar in full after the official tests, to avoid taking risks.
The best result achieved by Joan Mir in Qatar is the victory in 2017, his year of glory in the minor category. The only event he raced in Losail as a MotoGP rider saw him 8th at the finish. “It’s a good track for me.” declared the world champion in the premier class. “Recent tests make it look familiar to me.” The goal that has been declared for some time is the right only one. “I’m determined to start the season in the best way, I’m counting the hours!” Last year no one saw him as a possible favourite, this year he will be the driver to beat. And for many, first and foremost Miller, the Suzukis hid in the official tests.
As initially said, Alex Rins had to deal with a major shoulder injury accused at the beginning of 2020. Despite this, he managed to be a great protagonist, even if less than he would have liked. This year is even more charged. We remember his previous in Qatar: a third place in Moto3 in 2013, while as a MotoGP rider he scored a fourth place in 2019. “The atmosphere here is always crazy.” said the # 42. “Special, with the sun going down and the lights coming on. Now we are all ready for battle.” Of course, he first of all. “The race will be very exciting, I’m ready. I want more than 4th place in 2019, I’m aiming for the podium.“