Overcoming the disaster of his accident and subsequent injury in Jerez in July 2020, Marc Marquez faces the initial phase of the 2023 season, a period in his career that he barely recognizes.
He remarked, “With the exception of the injury, it’s been the darkest time in my sports career,” after finishing 17th at the Assen sprint race on June 24.
Marquez boasts 85 wins, including 59 in the premier class, but has failed to secure a grand prix victory since his win at the Emilia Romagna GP on September 20, 2021. Moreover, he hasn’t completed a full grand prix since October 23, 2022, at the Malaysian GP.
His situation has given rise to speculation about his future, with some suggesting an early departure from Honda before his contract ends in 2024.
In an exclusive interview with F1 Flow.com ahead of the British MotoGP, Marquez reiterated his commitment to “persevere with the project” at Honda, despite the brand’s ongoing difficulties.
When asked about his recovery from the rib injury that prevented him from starting at the Dutch GP in Assen, he said, “My recovery from the rib injury went quite smoothly, even quicker than I anticipated. However, my [right] ankle, which is still quite swollen, is the main issue. I have a torn ligament there, and it has been causing discomfort in my entire right leg, from the knee to the upper leg. It’s been a slower recovery than expected, but I’ve been able to do more on the bike lately and I’m physically in decent shape now.”
Following his departure from Assen, Marquez had mentioned using the summer to rest, reflect, and clear his mind. When asked if he had made a decision, he said, “Indeed, I’ve had a chance to think and evaluate. One thing we will change for the second half of the season is our approach to races. While I started the year intending to fight for victories and the world title, it’s clear we’re not ready for that yet, and I can’t enter the second half with that mindset. My focus now is to keep growing with the project and regaining my confidence and race pace.”
On how he maintains his motivation, Marquez said, “Currently, the motivation comes from my willpower and routine. I’ve sought methods to enjoy the process as much as possible. Gradually, as I feel better on the MotoGP bike and see myself improving, the additional motivation to compete for victories will return.”
During the five-week break, Marquez stayed connected with Alberto Puig and the test team, as Stefan Bradl tested at Misano and Jerez. He looks forward to learning about new developments and testing them in practice.
Lastly, when asked about Rins, who has agreed to replace Franco Morbidelli at the factory team in 2024, Marquez said, “It does surprise me. He said that the Honda was not a bad bike and that you could win with it. But so soon, he was considering switching brands, which is surprising. But we respect his decision. He must believe that Honda is not the right bike for him and is seeking a different project.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Marc Marquez Interview
How is Marc Marquez recovering from his injuries?
Marc Marquez reported that his rib injury recovery went better than expected, but he’s still experiencing issues with a torn ligament in his right ankle. This injury has caused discomfort in his entire right leg and recovery has taken longer than he anticipated.
What did Marquez say about his performance in the 2023 season?
Marquez described this part of the 2023 season as one of the most unrecognisable and challenging moments of his career. He aims to change his approach to races for the second part of the season, focusing on growth and regaining confidence.
Is Marc Marquez considering leaving Honda?
Despite the ongoing challenges and speculation about his future, Marquez maintains his commitment to Honda. He wants to continue growing the project at Honda, even though the brand is facing difficulties.
What is Marc Marquez’s current motivation for competing?
Right now, Marquez’s motivation comes from his willpower, sacrifice, and routine. He is looking for ways to make the process as enjoyable as possible, with the expectation that as he improves, his motivation to fight for victories will return.
What are Marc Marquez’s thoughts on Alex Rins’ move to Yamaha?
Marc Marquez was surprised by Rins’ decision to switch brands so soon, especially since Rins had previously stated that the Honda bike was not bad. However, Marquez respects Rins’ decision to pursue a different project.
More about Marc Marquez Interview
- Marc Marquez’s career highlights
- Honda’s MotoGP team
- Alex Rins and his career
- More about MotoGP
- More about the Emilia Romagna GP
5 comments
Really missing seeing Marc at the top of the podium. Tough times for Honda.
didnt think rins would make that move. thought he was settled at honda. shows what i know lol.
It’s good to see Marquez staying positive! He’s a champ, he’ll be back on form in no time!
Man, feel real bad for Marc. Hope he gets better soon, the sport ain’t the same without him at his best!
Surprised by Rins move to Yamaha. Thought Honda was doing well but guess not. Good luck to him.