MotoGP champion Mir “very calm” despite Brivio’s exit from Suzuki

Reigning MotoGP champion Joan Mir insists he remains “very calm” in the wake of Davide Brivio’s unexpected departure from the Suzuki squad.

Brivio shocked Suzuki by leaving his post at the Japanese manufacturer in order to make a switch to Formula 1 as racing director of the rebranded Alpine team.

The Italian had held the role since 2013 and his departure came just two months after helping Suzuki clam its first MotoGP title victory since 2000 with Mir.

Speaking about Brivio’s exit for the first time in an interview with SkySports24, Mir stressed he has confidence and faith in the factory squad’s ability to step up despite the setback.

“It is a very difficult situation because Davide was a point of reference for the team,” he said.

“But I’m very calm. I have a lot of confidence, I’m sure we’ll be able to do a good job, we have the people who can do it.”

Suzuki MotoGP project leader Shinichi Sahara has already made it clear the team is not looking to sign anyone to the role of team manager to replace Brivio in the upcoming 2021 season.

"I really appreciate what Davide has done since he joined Suzuki; coming in at the start with the newly-created project and growing it to become a top team," Sahara said.

"For sure we are affected by [his departure], but I don’t think we are going to lose the way without him, because we always looked at things in the same way and agreed on the direction to take. We also have expert staff to help us manage.

"I fully trust the team structure we have and the rest of the people who helped build it up… We will be more united than ever because we all love this brand, this team, and we will give 150% to carry on with the new challenges in the best way.”