Suzuki are set to make their MotoGP return earlier than first scheduled with plans to compete in the final round of this season in Valencia.
The Japanese marque have carried out extensive work developing its 2015 challenger this year ahead of the factory’s return to motorcycle racing’s top tier for the first time since 2011.
Suzuki has hinted at fielding wild cards in events this season, but so far have only made appearances in private and official test sessions.
However, team boss Davide Brivio has announced plans to field an entry for test rider Randy De Puniet in the final round of this season in November to aid the development of its 2015 machine.
“If everything goes the way it’s supposed to go, that is our plan,” Brivio told Italian magazine Motosprint.
“In October we’ll do several tests including in Valencia, so the material will be there already.
“We’ll also need [the race] as a final test before handing the bikes to our 2015 riders in the days that follow.”
Suzuki were last in action at the official MotoGP test at Spain’s Catalunya circuit where the squad worked on developing engines and electronics.
The team are yet to unveil its rider line up for the 2015 season but test rider De Puniet is believed to be in the frame for ride.
Although Brivio has admitted he has spoken to several riders about joining the team for next season.
“I’ve spoken with six/seven riders and with their respective managers. But I don’t want to list names for a matter of privacy and respect,” added Brivio.
“But since I believe that the four works riders at Honda and Yamaha will stay where they are, I can say that the riders’ market will see as main players the riders that fight for fifth position downwards on the points table, and perhaps some young riders.”