MotoGP Portugal J3, Marc Marquez (Ducati/16): “maybe Pecco was a little too optimistic, but that didn’t deserve to be sanctioned”

The MotoGP Portuguese Grand Prix was marked by a notable incident between Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia, placing them in the spotlight despite themselves. With just three laps to go, Marquez, the eight-time world champion, launched an offensive on Bagnaia, in difficulty at this point in the race, for fifth place. Bagnaia fought back, their trajectories crossed, and both fell, leaving empty-handed. The race management then summoned the two drivers, concluding that it was a “racing incident”.

Marc Marquez shared his thoughts with Sky Sport on this Portuguese Grand Prix : " it was clearly a racing incident, resulting in a fall for both of us and no points scored » he said. “ I was calm, I had calculated my move, knowing that Pecco was in trouble, I was ready to pass him, because I felt faster. Our collision was unexpected ».

He adds : " before the race, the atmosphere was relaxed, it's one of those borderline situations that doesn't deserve a sanction for Pecco, these incidents happen. If contact happens in the first round or in a battle for a podium or victory, it can happen.”

Marc Marquez: “ Pedro Acosta made many passes, guided by his instinct, it was fascinating to watch from the back »

Marc Marquez also notes: “ this year I act more thoughtfully. We were fighting for fifth or sixth place, he was maybe a point or two ahead, maybe Pecco was a little too optimistic. But it's in the past, now we have a clean slate ».

Then he moves on: “ this weekend I showed speed, I had three falls, not from excessive attack, but due to reflexes that I still have to master. Even during the warm-up, I went off the track in the third turn when my foot slipped off the footrest ».

Then he finishes: “ on the advantage of starting in the lead, I've been saying it for two or three years, and I'm not the only one. When moving backwards, tire pressure increases considerably. About Acosta? He made many passes, guided by his instinct, it was fascinating to watch from the back ».

MotoGP race results Portuguese GP

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