Alberto Puig broke his silence in Mandalika, once Marc Marquez made his arrival official within the Gresini Ducati team for the 2024 season. The Repsol Honda team manager had not said a word in Japan about the first big news which had been the premature end of the eight-time World Champion's contract with his troops, after 11 years of good and loyal service. Now that the mass is said, he goes to his verse, and he takes the blow.
Et Alberto puig begins his remarks by beating his guilt: “ Marc demanded a motorcycle adapted to his riding style. Unfortunately, we haven't been able to offer him that until now » said the Spaniard to motogp.com that holds the top spot. " We understand that it is probably best for both parties to go their separate ways. We must accept his departure ».
However, this acceptance is difficult for Alberto Puig : " it's sad because we have accomplished so much together. We have had many great moments. Honda is very grateful for Marc's contribution ».
Alberto Puig: “ Honda has great respect for Marc and did not want to force him to keep it if he wanted to leave the team »
When asked when Honda had discovered the eight-time world champion's intentions to separate, Puig surprisingly responded. “ He has been calling for an improvement to the motorcycle for a long time. But we only learned of his intention to leave last Tuesday ". Certainty therefore only arrived during the latest discussions in Japan. And Puig adds: " Honda has great respect for Marc and did not want to force him to keep it if he wanted to leave the team ».
Inconsolable, he elaborates: “ it's never good to lose a champion like Marc. But it's even worse to give up on your dream. The Honda philosophy is still the same. We will continue to fight to get back to the top. We have already experienced many ups and downs, but the desire to improve has never gone away ».
Finally Puig wish to Marc Marquez the best for its future: “ we hope Marc gets what he deserves. He deserves to be at the front of the pack. I hope we can fight him there soon ».
