Following its surprising withdrawal from MotoGP at the end of 2022, Suzuki is once again making headlines: President Toshihiro Suzuki has spoken about the possibility of returning to the premier class of motorcycle racing in an interview with the Italian daily newspaper Corriere dello Sport. However, this option is subject to clearly defined conditions, which the Japanese manufacturer would like to fulfill first.
Suzuki can look back on an eventful history in MotoGP. In 2020, the brand celebrated winning the Riders’ World Championship with Joan Mir – a triumph that cemented its position in MotoGP. But just two years later, Suzuki abruptly pulled the plug. Despite sporting successes such as Alex Rins’ victories in Australia and at the season finale in Valencia in 2022, Suzuki left the racing series. The withdrawal not only left a gap in the starting field, but also caused astonishment among fans and experts.
Since then, the question of a possible return of the brand has persisted. Now there seems to be some movement in the discussion.
Toshihiro Suzuki’s vision: a new start with a plan
In his latest statements, Toshihiro Suzuki underlined the company’s ambitions to compete in MotoGP again – but not at any price. “We will return to racing and we will do it to win,” he explained. However, this statement contains a crucial caveat: “But to do so, we first have to solve our market problems. If we can’t offer a full range and detailed models, it doesn’t make sense to be in MotoGP.”
The demand for a “complete range” raises questions. Suzuki already offers a wide range of motorcycles, from sports bikes such as the GSX-R1000 to adventure models. But it seems that the manufacturer is striving to develop its portfolio further in order to compete with current market leaders such as Ducati, KTM and Yamaha.
Challenges: Market position and resources
The return to MotoGP presents Suzuki with several challenges. In addition to the need to expand the model range, considerable financial and human resources would be required. Building a competitive team requires top talent, which is currently in short supply. Even other manufacturers are struggling with similar problems.
The existing structure of MotoGP also makes Suzuki’s return difficult. With currently five manufacturers and eleven teams, Dorna manager Carlos Ezpeleta does not foresee any short-term expansion of capacity.
A look to the future: 2026 and the new rules
A possible return of Suzuki could take place in 2026 or 2027 at the earliest, when new technical regulations are introduced in MotoGP. This transition period offers Suzuki the opportunity to develop a model that could be successful both on the race track and in sales. One example of this is the GSX-R1000, which is still in the range but has not received any fundamental updates for years. A new flagship model could reposition the brand both technically and in terms of image.
Conclusion: hope and patience
Although a quick return to MotoGP is unlikely, there are many indications that Suzuki is seriously considering the option. With the right strategic steps, the brand could be fighting for victories again in the coming years – perhaps even under the new rules from 2027. For fans, it remains to be seen whether Suzuki can build up the necessary momentum to build on old successes.
