Brno MotoGP Reaction: Loris Capirossi delighted with maiden Suzuki podium

Loris Capirossi celebrated equalling the record number of Grand Prix appearances in Brno today with his debut rostrum finish for Suzuki.

The veteran Italian, making his 276th appearance to equal Alex Barros’s record, claimed the 99th podium of his long career to claim third place behind Bridgestone duo Valentino Rossi and Toni Elias.

Capirossi had several battles on his way through the pack, most notably with factory Suzuki team-mate Chris Vermeulen in the early stages.

On the brink of clinching a new deal with Suzuki, Capirossi said: “I want to say what a fantastic day this is for me today!

“After the injury in Barcelona I have not had the opportunity to go quick due to my condition, but all the people around me – including the whole team and Suzuki – stayed really close to me and gave me great support so I am really happy to pay them back with this podium – it actually feels more like a win for me because it means so much!

“After the break following Laguna, I was able to get some rest and start training again to get myself back in the best condition, and although I am still not 100% I am nearly there and I was able to challenge all weekend.

“My dream this weekend was to fight for a podium, after Friday I felt I could do that and today I started with a good focus to do my best. This result is for all the team and everybody working with me, because when we make a great result I am really happy, and today I am certainly really happy!”

Capirossi will stay in Brno for two days to test Suzuki’s 2009 prototype GSV-R.