There remain three Grands Prix and six drivers mathematically still in the running for the title of World Champion. Among the contenders and at both ends of this group are Suzuki officials. Given the stakes that a world driver's title represents for a manufacturer, we could say that, so close to the goal, team instructions will arrive so as not to waste this unique opportunity because of a fratricidal fight. But the one in charge on the ground, Davide Brivio, is not of this opinion…
It's a question that he gets asked often: as a team manager Suzuki, will he give orders to his drivers so that one sacrifices his chances of being World Champion for the benefit of the other, all in the name of the general interest of the brand? For many in this position and situation, this would be a dilemma. But for Davide Brivio, the first concerned at Suzuki, this is not even to be considered yet.
He thus confirms his previous positions on the subject, by developing it on the theme of his noble and selfless values... He thus explains on speedweek : " I wish I had this problem every year » he smiles, thus reminding us that there are pleasant worries… Then he continues: “ if both drivers have the chance to fight for the world title, you can't ask for teamwork »
Respect and correction are the only instructions
« The only strategy we talked about is that both teammates need to treat each other with respect and properly on the slopes. Suzuki doesn't like team orders, that's why we told our riders: " May the best win " ", underlines Brivio.
However, an order may still arrive, but this will require well-defined general conditions: “ When we get to the last race and one of the drivers is no longer competing for the title, we could talk about it again. Maybe this approach is too romantic, but it's good when a world championship is won without instructions, when everyone can fight for the title with their strength. This is why there will be no team orders at this time », insists Brivio.
By the way, only eleven points separate Franco Morbidelli, fourth, from his teammate fabio quartararo, second overall. At the house of Petronas, which truly builds the manufacturers' title for Yamaha instead of the factory structure, we also have this problem of the rich. And even with a little more tension...
MotoGP Championship ranking after Teruel (11/14):
