Team Bolliger Switzerland is set for a strong 2023 season based on its point-scoring start to the new FIM Endurance World Championship campaign in the 24 Heures Motos.

The Kawasaki-powered squad arrived in Le Mans with a revamped rider line-up consisting of Pedro Nuno Romero Barbosa, Nico Thöni and Marcel Brenner, who was competing in a 24-hour race for the first time.

Kevin Bolliger, Team Manager, reflected on his squad’s capture of ninth place in Formula EWC in 11th overall.

“We look back on a very positive week and a race in which we were able to score our first points. Despite several small incidents, the race went well and we were able to take home the first 16 points. 

“After a good start by Nico, all the riders were able to prove their skills and consistently rode fast laps so that we were always able to stay between positions nine-15. 

“After about two hours of the race we had some problems with the electronics so that the traction control didn't work properly anymore, but this was fixed at the next pit stop and from then on our machine ran smoothly again, so that good times were set. 

“When the night came, it was hard for the riders and the mechanics, because the temperatures dropped to four degrees and it got really cold and uncomfortable. Through the night, everything went smoothly and we had consolidated our position in P10. 

“When it started to get dark and the track didn't have that grip anymore due to the humidity, Pedro had a high-sider and crashed. Luckily he didn't get hurt and was able to bring the bike back to the pits, which was quite damaged, so that the mechanics had the bike ready to race again in about 20 minutes and the race could be resumed. 

“Afterwards, the riders again delivered very well as before, still consistently riding between 1m37s and 1m39s. The race ended in ninth place in class and P11 overall. Considering that we had some incidents in the race, we are satisfied with this ranking and the 16 points.
 
“But what makes us extremely positive and confident for the next races is the realisation that we have an unbelievably positive team spirit, the atmosphere is sensational, everyone in the team does their job with joy, the riders are extremely fast, the machine runs well and the complete package fits. So we are sure that if we have a race with less or no incidents, a top place will be possible.”