This pre-event conference for the 2016 edition of the Japanese Grand Prix brought together Marc Marquez, Valentino Rossi, Jorge Lorenzo, Maverick Vinales, Andrea Dovizioso and Bradley Smith.
We therefore offer you a full “raw” translation of Marc Marquez’s words, without any journalistic formatting or distortion.
Marc, there is a very small chance that you can win the title here…
“Yes, as you say, it's the first time here, but I think it's not worth talking about it because a lot can happen and I know it will be difficult, almost impossible . So this weekend, at this race, we are focusing on keeping the same mindset that we have had so far. It looks at the moment that the weather will be stable, which is also important, but you never know because it's cold here and it's cloudy. We will see during the weekend how we can manage this situation, but yes; for now, try to keep the same mindset and work hard. We know that Motegi will not be like Aragon, but I think that each time we are better and better and we will see where our level is. »
You already won a title here a few years ago…
“Yes, it's a circuit that's not that bad for my riding style, but it seems like our bike struggles a little here every year. We'll see this year, because we also expected to be very far away in Misano when we were closer. We will see during this weekend how we can manage, what our level will be, and as I said, trying to score points for the championship will be the most important, and if we can be on the podium it will be again better. »
After Motegi, the championship should be decided in the next two weeks…
" Of course, of course. This is another point. We arrive now with three races in a row and so it is important to finish all the races, to be there and also to stay during the tests because you can fall. You have to control the limits because you still have two races left. We'll see, but at the moment we're in Motegi, so Australia is next week and we're just focusing on Japan at the moment. »
We would like it to be decided in Valencia, but you, no…
“(Laughs). Of course, but you never know. The championship is very long and anything can happen. Obviously, we have a good advantage at the moment and we will try to use it, and we will see, but you know, there are still 4 races left. No matter where, no matter when, the most important thing is to try to achieve our goal. »
If you win the title in the coming weeks, how would you rate it?
“(Laughs). If I win the world title, then I will tell you. I can't tell you before. But we work hard, like every year, we try to give 100%, but of course this year we try to manage all situations and try to use our experience. But I don't want to say anything now. If I'm world champion, then we'll see, but I don't want to talk about that. »
After Aragon, did you test the 2017 Honda with or without fins?
“I tested without them, because I had already driven in Aragon without the wings. I had the small ones on the fairing but it doesn't make any difference. »
How do you cope with jet lag?
“For me, perfect (laughs). I have no problem sleeping. »
