Mir expected 'more wins’ after 2020 world title, vows to be better

Joan Mir is confident of re-finding his winning touch in 2022 after becoming the first MotoGP champion since the late Nicky Hayden not to win a race the following season.

While the 2021 season was still a good one from Mir as he claimed six podiums (third highest) and a third place finish in the championship, the 2020 world champion was just one of three riders inside the top ten not to win a race - the other two being Johann Zarco and Aleix Espargaro. 

In fact, even during his title winning campaign Mir was victorious just once which is the lowest of any champion in the MotoGP era. 

But despite that, Mir is not concerned by critics who point to his winning numbers or lack thereof as he believes they ‘know nothing about racing’. 

Mir told Speedweek: "There are two points of view. The people who say that know nothing about racing. The others who follow the races in a good way and know about motorcycles have a different opinion. I listen to these people.”

Mir also believes he would have won more races in 2020 had he not been involved in a title battle.

The 24 year-old added: "In 2020 I was fighting for the title and sometimes that made it a bit difficult to take the risk to get the win. 

"If I hadn't been fighting for the title, I certainly would have won more races. I admit that after showing the potential and considering I usually improve year after year I expected to win more. This year I'll be better, I'm only 24 years old and my curve is pointing upwards."

Mir, who has been heavily linked with a move to Repsol Honda for 2023 will need a stronger package from Suzuki this season if he’s to first and foremost challenge for the title, but also to keep him interested in staying with the Hamamatsu-based manufacturer.