Ducati: Marc Marquez’s revelation spooks the competition

Marc Marquez closed the gap to World Championship leader Jorge Martin to just two points after his victory in the Japanese Grand Prix. At Motegi, the Spanish Ducati rider battled with the Aprilia rider in the early laps, then—after passing him midway through the race—pulled away inexorably to claim the win.

Speaking to Sky after the race, Marquez sent a clear message to everyone: “It didn’t go exactly as I wanted, because I wanted to be in first place on the first lap. I struggled a bit in the early laps, but then I found my rhythm. I decided to take the lead to manage the race the way I wanted. Whoever’s in front sets the pace.” The No. 93 rider made it clear that his potential was even greater: “I could push every lap, but there’s no need. With experience, I’ve realized that there’s no need to win by three or four seconds—a tenth, a thousandth, or better yet, a second is enough. I try to always stay between seven-tenths and a second behind—a comfortable gap. When an opponent gets close, I push a little harder.”

The champion from Cervera won both the sprint race and Sunday’s race: “As early as Friday, I saw that it was possible to score 37 points, and I aimed for that. I had 37 in mind. Now there are six Grand Prix races left; for the moment, we’re right there and we’re fighting. We’re putting Martin under a bit of pressure, as he’s the one who’s been riding incredibly fast in these last few races.”

A tribute to Dall’Igna: “This is Gigi Dall’Igna’s 100th victory; I’m enjoying what he’s created. Gigi and his entire staff are giving 100% to give me everything I need to compete against the Aprilias and fight for the championship—and I feel good.”