Kevin Schwantz unsure of future Suzuki tie-up

Suzuki’s woeful year might dissuade American legend Kevin Schwantz from spearheading a new satellite team in 2011.

The Texan has been locked in talks with JiR boss Gianluca Montiron about managing a new Suzuki MotoGP effort in 2011.

But Suzuki failed to score a single podium in 2009 and the 1993 world champion told MCN: “I’m not sure I’d want to lease Suzuki’s right now.

“The factory effort is enough of a struggle and I don’t think I want to be a step back from that.”

Schwantz has also been linked with Montiron’s new Moto2 squad that will race in 2010.

And he is tempted to spearhead that project to convince Suzuki he has what it takes to manage at the highest level.

Schwantz has made no secret of his desire to run Suzuki’s factory team and he added: “I always felt I’d love running their GP team.

“I like the challenge of it and maybe Moto2 is a new opportunity.

“I’ve been talking to JiR and maybe in that team I can show what I can do, so if Suzuki finally decide or if something comes up, then I’ve got some experience under my belt.”