Suzuki 'still investigating' satellite team despite Brivio exit

Suzuki project leader Shinichi Sahara is not excluding the possibility of a satellite MotoGP team for 2022, despite disruption caused by the departure of factory team manager Davide Brivio.

“We are still investigating what the best way is," Sahara said of a 2022 satellite team. "During the season maybe we will have some more information.”

But there is no doubt that Brivio's exit, for a senior role at the Alpine F1 team, makes such a partnership more complicated.

The Italian would have been the main point of contact for a satellite structure, a trusted and familiar face within the paddock literally speaking the same language as at least two of the possible contenders (VR46 and Gresini) while bridging the gap between the Independent team and Suzuki factory.

Although Brivio had close ties with VR46 through past management of Valentino Rossi, he was also well known to Petronas (having previously spoken to the Sepang team about a satellite Suzuki project for 2019) and Gresini (seeking new machines after the end of its factory Aprilia partnership).

"As the target is 2022, we have to decide in early 2021," said Brivio, aware of the planning and logistics involved from his Yamaha days. "Maybe before March-April maximum, otherwise we have no time to get organised."

At present, KTM is the only factory to have officially signed with Dorna to remain in MotoGP beyond 2021, and Gresini the only Independent team.

Suzuki, which won its first premier-class title since 2000 with Joan Mir last year, "won’t look for an external manager right now" to replace Brivio and intend to "try and manage the situation with the people inside Suzuki.. It is the best way for us. We know who we are, how we work, how we interact, and what we need."