Team Suzuki Ecstar and Suzuki Motor Corporation are celebrating in style today after Alex Rins clinched the factory’s 500th podium across classes with his second place at the Circuit of the Americas. This impressive milestone comes on the same day that the MotoGP™ series celebrates its 500th Grand Prix in the ‘Racing Together’ era (the partnership between the FIM, Dorna, the MSMA, and IRTA). Joan Mir put in another solid race; riding his way from eighth on the grid to fourth at the chequered flag.

After a clean start, at the end of the first lap, Mir and Rins were on the back of the leading riders, in seventh and eighth. The pair proceeded to set their sights high while keeping their cool as the race shook out. By Lap 6 Rins had made his way into the Top 5, simultaneously setting the fastest lap of the race.

With five laps left in the 20 lap race, Rins was in a comfortable third position with air either side of him. Meanwhile, Mir, who had impressively pushed through to fourth, was easing away from those behind and setting himself up for another respectable and consistent finish just off the podium – the same position he now holds in the Riders’ World Championship.

On the penultimate lap at the Circuit of the Americas, Rins had gained considerably on Jack Miller and a great battle between the pair ensued. Rins made the pass at Turn 11 but lost the position, and in one final determined and brave move at Turn 19 he snatched an excellent second place, which also gives him second place in the World Standings.

Rins and Mir will now head to Portugal in two weeks’ time holding second and fourth in the Riders’ Championship, first in the Teams’ Championship, and third in the Constructors’ Championship.

Alex Rins:

“I’m so happy! I didn’t actually expect to get the podium, because in the first few laps I was struggling a bit and in risk to lose ground. I had to try and push the tyres more, to brake later, to make good overtakes. When I got into third I had a couple of moments on the front, some mistakes, and I knew that finishing the race was the most important thing. Then, with just two laps to go, I felt better and my pace was good, it meant I was able to overtake Jack and get second. This result is great, and I want to dedicate this podium to Suzuki for their amazing achievements, but also to the people of Ukraine, and those around the world who are suffering.”

Joan Mir:

“I’m super happy because this is my best result in Austin, and it’s a very difficult track to ride. So, for me, to finish in fourth is a great thing. We managed to do a great race and my performance with the bike has improved race by race, thanks to my team. I started today’s race in a calm and careful way, and I was able to build and up my pace, eventually passing quite a few riders to get fourth. I’m happy and excited to go to Portugal with the improvements we’ve found, starting this European section of the season means a lot of races and pressure but we’re exactly where I hoped to be so far.”

Livio Suppo – Team Manager:

“Our riders had a great race today; both showing determination but balancing it with smooth moves and careful consideration. Both Alex and Joan had really nice pace, the GSX-RR was also working well, and this makes us feel good. I’m proud to be part of this Suzuki squad on the day the brand takes its 500th podium, it’s a special feeling. Now let’s stay grounded and keep our focus on Europe.”

Ken Kawauchi – Technical Manager:

“We are very happy with today’s result. We had a podium with Alex last week in Argentina, and we were able to repeat it here at a very different track. This was a ‘classic Suzuki race’ in the sense that we didn’t start high up but we kept our determination and fighting spirit, then both Alex and Joan got the best from themselves and their bikes. It was an excellent way to celebrate 500 podiums for Suzuki. We’ve had a consistent start to the season, and now we’ll go to the European rounds to try and keep this momentum and aim for a win.”