MotoGp, Le Mans: Alex Marquez prepares for rain dance
The press room at the Bugatti circuit in Le Mans hosted the riders’ conference on Thursday afternoon on the eve of the French GP. In an atmosphere of high anticipation, fueled by the public records of the past editions, the spotlight turned on local idols Fabio Quartararo and Johann Zarco, called to redemption on their home track. Along with them, in front of the microphones of the international press, also Alex Marquez, fresh from his success in the last round in Jerez.
“Our weekend in Spain was fantastic – said Marc’s brother -, I found again the speed and the sensations of 2025.” Despite his success, the Spaniard does not feel he is the favorite for Sunday and, indeed, hopes for the help of the rain to smooth out the differences between his Ducati and the other top bikes. “In the wet I think I have a better chance, but Zarco and Quartararo are the home heroes and will be dangerous in all conditions. I will have to think first of all about finishing the race, as I crashed twice last year.”
The two French riders took part in the same session with reporters. “We will try to dedicate some time to the fans,” Zarco said, “even if it is demanding and we sacrifice some of the sporting aspect. On the pitfalls of the weather, the surprise winner of the 2025 French GP added, “In the rain, all the movements are more delicate and I can control them better than in the dry, where instead you push a lot and can make mistakes. If the same opportunity as last year comes up again, I will have to stay focused and take advantage of it.”
Quartararo, on the other hand, maintained a cautious approach, regarding the performance of his Yamaha: “Unfortunately, expectations are lower than last year. In Jerez, more than the potential, we found the feeling again: we will use the aerodynamic package we used in testing, I think it can help us.” On the public’s contribution, he pointed out, “When you want to overdo it, you make a mistake. I try to use the energy of the public to give something more, but I don’t think it can help me to do a better result. At most I can give my best.”
