Marc Marquez, Giacomo Agostini isn’t holding his breath: "Spain will catch fire"

Multiple motorcycle world champion Giacomo Agostini in an interview on the sidelines of the Laureus awards said he was not at all concerned about Marc Marquez and Ducati’s difficult start to the season in MotoGP: “The real championship will start on Sunday in Jerez. When Marquez gives 100 percent, I am rooting for Márquez. If Bezzecchi gives his best, I will root for him. The same goes for Bagnaia or Martín. For me it’s the rider that counts, not the name.”

According to Agostini, the number 93 rider is still the man to beat: “Marc is the man to beat, because he is the defending champion. That said, right now Bezzecchi and the Aprilia are going really strong. I think the World Championship will really start here in Jerez. All the riders have now completed their preparation and should be in top form. We will see how it will go. Hopefully the best will win. There are several riders who are capable of fighting for victory: let’s wait for this race.”

Marquez could beat his all-time record for Grand Prix wins, 122: “We are kind of in the same situation: I used to race in two categories, but with fewer races; today, however, there are 22 races in one category. So yes, it is possible. It will all depend on the condition of his arm.”

Next season Ducati could field the Marquez-Pedro Acosta pairing: “They will be two cannibals, two strong and aggressive riders, both Spanish. In our business the first rival is always the box mate, but Marc will give everything, he will push hard. It promises to be a good battle: Spain will catch fire.”