MotoGP debutant, Álex Márquez will make his debut at the Qatar Grand Prix, for the traditional inaugural round of the world championship. With this signing, Honda Repsol manages to field two drivers – two more brothers – from Spanish training. But what should you expect?
Well on paper, to a monster. Indeed, Álex Márquez already seems to be dividing the crowds, without even having taken a knee on the track. But today, when we look at the question, it is clear that the pilot impresses. Remember that the latter has already won two world titles: first in 2014, at the end of a magnificent season.
The latter manages to extricate himself from the clutches of Jack Miller and Álex Rins, at the end of the suspense. This title teaches us two things: He is capable of being constant, fast over an entire season while managing to maneuver within a three-way battle as part of a tight outcome.
Álex Márquez at the 2013 British Grand Prix. Photo: Smudge 9000
Álex Márquez represents a paradox, rare in our sport. Indeed, it is not so impressive on the track, with pure speed within the norm. But this one has just achieved a real tour de force: winning the small and medium category is difficult, even very difficult. The last one to achieve this feat? His brother and teammate, in 2010 then in 2012. Before this, we have to go back to Dani Pedrosa (2003/2004) then to the crack Manuel Poggiali (2001/2003). For the 21st century, that's it. Álex Márquez knows how to win.
'Know how to win' is a concept, but is necessary to understand. We distinguish between the magnificent drivers who lack that last 'touch', that last effort to win a title, and those who coolly pile up the coronations.
This is referred to by the American term 'clutch gene'. This 'gene' makes it possible to characterize those who perform under pressure, who produce solid races when it counts, when big points are at stake. Small example to illustrate the point: In whom, by Álex Rins or Álex Márquez , do you see the most potential?
Always walking hand in hand, the Márquez brothers will face each other next year. The two should not give each other gifts… photo: Box Repsol
Many will lean towards the official Suzuki, the latter having been able to express his natural speed on numerous occasions, in all categories thanks to a flamboyant style. In fact, however, one lost two championships, the other won two.
This status of permanent outsider, of silent starving is a huge advantage. It seems that the little one of the Márquez siblings will be fast, at one point or another. In addition, he will be able to benefit from the wise advice of his brother, who, remember, displays eight championships on his fireplace.
There will be falls. On the other hand, his undeniable talent can really take him to the top of the premier category in a few years.
