Marc Marquez confesses that he’s in “no hurry” to settle his MotoGP future, particularly when questioned about the possibility of joining the factory Ducati team.
Following purported remarks from Davide Tardozzi hinting at Marc Marquez as a potential candidate for the second Lenovo Ducati seat, the eight-time champion was queried about it during the press conference preceding the Portimao MotoGP.
Marquez responded, stating: “My circumstances are entirely distinct from before. In December, I finalized the contract for the upcoming year, and presently, I’m not under any time pressure.”
“I simply want to focus on myself and give my best performance on the race track. I understand that if I enjoy the racing and show speed, more opportunities for choosing a seat will come my way.
“However, at this moment, I prefer not to comment. I want to keep my focus on myself, concentrate on Qatar, focus on the upcoming races. Some races will go better, some worse, but I will aim to give my all.
“I recognize that in this sport, the present matters, not the past. The current situation is as it is because there are two, three, or four riders faster than me.”
Marquez, who secured two top-five finishes in his Ducati debut in Qatar, showcased strong performance as he aims to match the pace of riders like Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin.
When pressed on whether he would favor the pressure of a factory team or opt for a full factory bike with Gresini, Marquez remained elusive.
“I’ll pass on answering the second question,” Marquez replied with a smile. “Right now, I’m focused on my own performance on the track. By doing so, I believe more opportunities will come my way.”
“The pressure remains the same because both riders and teams are delighted with podium finishes; it’s a target for this team.
“Standing on the podium is superior to finishing in the top five, and winning a race surpasses a podium. Nevertheless, maintaining a good atmosphere and sharing jokes doesn’t mean there isn’t pressure or ambition.
“The ambition matches that of a factory team because we’re here to compete for the best possible results.
“However, it’s true that there are fewer people in the team, making it more akin to a family. The atmosphere in the Repsol Honda team was respectable, but the cultural differences among Japanese, Italian, Spanish, and American teams vary. Every atmosphere is favorable when the results are positive.”
Marquez engaged in a thrilling battle against rookie sensation Pedro Acosta in Qatar.
The latter appears destined for MotoGP greatness, a status Marquez has held for a significant period.
Marquez emerged victorious in that battle as Acosta struggled with rear tire wear. However, the Gresini rider anticipates Acosta consistently challenging at the forefront of MotoGP in the future.
“I mentioned last year, and I reiterate after Qatar, that he will be among the future stars of MotoGP, as he demonstrated in Qatar with his remarkable talent,” Marquez expressed.
“When you possess exceptional talent, you’re quick on any bike.
“He showcased incredible speed in those laps, and I’m certain he has learned valuable lessons in tire management.
“I am confident he will excel in the upcoming races.”
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