Suzuki confirm Guintoli to replace Rins in Le Mans

Suzuki have confirmed that former World Superbike World Champion Sylvain Guintoli will stand in for the injured Alex Rins in two weeks time at Le Mans. 

Rumours last week suggested that the Frenchman was on hand to replace the injured rookie as he recovers from surgery on his broken arm. With Suzuki test rider Takuya Tsuda standing in for Rins this weekend in Jerez, there was no need to push for Guintoli, however Suzuki were keen to get the former MotoGP man back in front of his home crowd.

Guintoli will get his first taste of the GSX-RR on Tuesday when he will test the Suzuki before being thrown into the lions den eleven days later. 

The Bennetts Suzuki BSB star said that he looks forward to the challenge of racing the GSX-RR and cannot wait to get back in front of his home fans.

“First, I would like to thank Suzuki for giving me this fantastic opportunity,” said the 34-year-old.

“Being able to ride the GSX-RR, currently one of the fastest racing machine in the world is a very exciting prospect, let alone at my home race in front of the French fans.

“The ‘Le Mans Grand Prix’ brings back a lot of strong memories, the best one of course was leading the MotoGP race for a few laps in 2007. This is going to be a very difficult challenge, adapting to the very powerful prototype MotoGP machine and the Michelin tires, but my main goal is to enjoy the experience and give 100% commitment to the team.

“The test on Tuesday will give us some time to adapt and to start understanding this amazing motorcycle. Finally, I want to wish a very good recovery to Alex.”

Photo via Suzuki-Racing