Confident Guintoli excited for MotoGP return

Sylvain Guintoli has described this weekends French Grand Prix as an amazing experience as he prepares to race a MotoGP bike once again.

The Frenchman was granted special disposition by his Bennetts Suzuki team to stand in for the injured Alex Rins aboard the factory Suzuki GSX-RR this weekend at his home race in Le Mans. The Frenchman hasn’t raced a MotoGP machine since 2011 when he rode the Desmosedici at the Sachsenring. 

The 34-year-old tested the GSX-RR during last weeks post-race test in Jerez and said that the confidence and experience of that test will help him greatly when the lights go out this weekend in France. 

“The test in Jerez last week was very positive for me, especially on the second day,” said the 2014 World Superbike World Champion.

“I was able to work intensively with the tyres and get to know them a little bit better. We focused a lot on the hard tyres, likely the ones we will use in the race, and I improved on the pace quite a bit so I’m happy about that.

“It was really great to experience the Suzuki GSX-RR and do this testing. I have a better understanding of the bike and the tyres. That will be useful in France.”

Guintoli also said that the way he has been welcomed into the team has been a big positive for him. Without any data of his own, the open book strategy of the Suzuki team will aid him as he looks for a set up through the weekend. 

“Also the connection that we created with the team is very positive. We shared a lot of information and the feeling is very good. I’m really looking forward to Le Mans.

“The testing got rid of some of my apprehension and I feel more confident, so I can’t wait to meet all the French fans and enjoy this amazing experience.”

Photo via Suzuki-Racing