Danilo Petrucci to make MotoGP return in Thailand for Suzuki

Petrucci, a two-time race winner in the premier class who left at the end of 2021, will race at the Thai MotoGP in Buriram instead of Mir, who still has an ankle injury sustained in Austria.

Petrucci said: “Needless to say, I’m so happy for the chance to race in Thailand with Team Suzuki Ecstar. I want to thank the team for giving me this fantastic opportunity. I also want to thank Ducati and my current team management for letting me take this stand-in ride. 

“I’m really curious to jump on the GSX-RR and try it, it looks very fast and we know it’s a winning machine. I’m also eager to work with the Suzuki crew, that I’ve known for a long time now and we have a wonderful relationship. 

“I know it won’t be easy, so I’m not putting any expectations on the experience, I just want to enjoy it. I’m also excited to be one of the few riders in history jumping from a MotoGP machine to a Dakar bike, a Superbike, then another factory MotoGP bike!”

Livio Suppo said: "Unfortunately after a new MRI, doctors have confirmed that Joan’s situation is improving but not enough to allow him to race in Thailand. Therefore, he will continue his rehabilitation in order to be fit for Phillip Island. 

“He will be replaced in Buriram this weekend by Danilo Petrucci. We would like to thank Ducati for allowing Danilo to take this opportunity. We know Danilo is a "flagship" for them and we really appreciate it – it goes to show that passion and understanding is more important than anything else in our sport. We therefore welcome Danilo to our team, we will do our best to make this weekend unforgettable for him!"

Mir said: “It’s really nice to come back to Buriram, not least because the fans here are incredibly passionate about motorcycle racing and the atmosphere is always really exciting. As everyone knows, Motegi wasn’t a positive race for us, but I did get a huge boost from the Japanese fans and I want to take that support into the remaining races.”