Marc Marquez On Motegi Recovery - 'It Took Longer Than I Expected"
Categories: MotoGP
For Marc Marquez the Japanese Grand Prix last weekend was the first real test for his arm after the big surgery a couple of months back. Now, he gives an update on the recovery process after his first full race since Mugello.
After the Lap 1 incident with Fabio Quartararo and Takaaki Nakagami and his early retirement in Aragon, Marquez was set for his first full race performance in Motegi.
Following his incredible qualifying performance ending in a pole position for the Spaniard, Marquez was able to ride the whole race. He later described the race as “the first time on the last lap [he] was able to keep pushing”.
“I finished the race in a good way. Of course, I was quite careful, especially due to my condition and the rear soft tire.”
After an overtake on Miguel Oliveira late in the race, Marquez finished a strong fourth, giving Honda their best result since Jerez.
However, the big effort by the 8-time world champion does not come without consequences. Although Marquez said he felt little to no pain, the recovery process after the race was still massively affected.
Marc Marquez in Buriram – Image provided by Motorsport Images
“During this week, it took more time than I expected. On Tuesday my arm was completely stiff. Today I feel better and for tomorrow [Friday] it won’t be a problem.”
Marquez is eager to show a good performance in Thailand once again. In 2019, a win over Fabio Quartararo meant early celebrations as the Spaniard secured his eighth championship title.
“Thailand – I like it. [I have] really good memories from 2018 and 2019. But this year, we are not in the same situation. We won’t be fighting for the victory on the last lap.”
