The admission that Joan Mir made on Friday, when reviewing his first day of this Algarve Grand Prix in Portimao, is rare enough to be noted. Indeed, if pilots willingly talk about their injuries, they rarely address their mental form, a sensitive subject because it is open to interpretation since it can only be detected by the person concerned himself. And in this ruthless world of competition, it is better to always appear strong, in front of your opponents and in front of your boss. So, when the 2020 World Champion who lost his crown in Misano says that he had severe fatigue and a real sluggishness forcing him to take a step back, it's quite a confidence...
It is also a courageous approach towards the outside world and honest with oneself. To say that you have, in some way, broken down under the burden of your role is strange for a high-level athlete. But it is a reality: Joan Mir had his “burn-out”. The official Suzuki says thus: “ After the last race, I took a week off to recharge my batteries. A week seems normal to others, but I haven't taken a leave since last December and I haven't had a single day without training or without a bike “, he stressed. And he recognizes it: “ I needed this time to rest because I was a little mentally collapsed after the last races ».
Joan Mir: “I needed a little rest”
He specifies : " when I won last year we finished the season in Portimão. I was already training again on Tuesday. The title gave me extra motivation and I put a lot of pressure on myself, so much so that I don't feel the external pressure at all. Then in December I had a vacation and since then I have been training constantly and always focused on my tasks ».
Joan mir finished : " after a long season, I needed a little rest to be able to participate in the season finale with all my energy. It's important to train hard, but it's at least as important to take breaks. I still need to improve in this area ». Joan mir is still looking for its first success this year in MotoGP, like the rest of the staff Suzuki. He only has two Grands Prix left to succeed in this endeavor.
