Álex Márquez Reflects on Fierce Battle with Brother Marc: “Satisfied with Second Place After Giving My All”
Álex Márquez looked back on his intense battle with his brother Marc Márquez at the Argentine GP, expressing satisfaction with his hard-fought second-place finish. He also praised Marc for equaling Ángel Nieto’s 90-win record, calling it “a result well-deserved.”
Álex got off to a strong start and even managed to retake his position from Pecco Bagnaia after being challenged at Turn 3. Though he struggled with tire selection, he ultimately opted for the medium rear tire, just like Marc and Pecco. After Marc passed him, Álex pushed to the limit but accepted second place as the final result.
Álex Márquez’s Comments
“Marc’s performance was excellent, and matching Ángel Nieto’s record is a result he deserves. I had a good start today. Pecco attacked at Turn 3, but I was able to regain the position afterward.”
“I felt good from the start, though I struggled with tire selection. In the end, I chose the medium rear tire, like Marc and Pecco. Marc made a mistake at Turn 1, which allowed me to take the lead and build a gap.”
“When Marc attacked at Turn 5, I thought about pushing back. I was pushing to the absolute limit, clocking 1:38.3, but Marc was faster at 1:38.2. I was on the verge of crashing in every corner, and ultimately, I accepted second place.”
“Marc can push beyond the limit in the final stages of a race, and that’s an area where I still need to improve. Nevertheless, I’m satisfied with this weekend. I’m happy with the level I’m showing in MotoGP, and this bike really suits my riding style. It’s been fun to ride. The team did an excellent job, and Ducati’s support has been amazing. Being able to battle with Marc in MotoGP is a great experience.”
Álex also reflected on the upcoming races:
“In Thailand, Marc showed another level of performance. I don’t know how close I can get on future circuits, but I’ll continue to enjoy each race and work on improving. My focus is on giving my all from Friday to Sunday, without thinking too far ahead.”
Regarding questions about whether his respect for Marc affects his racing, Álex responded firmly:
“Many journalists suggest that I can’t overtake Marc out of respect, but that’s an unfair question to me, my team, and my sponsors. He is my brother, so I’m naturally more cautious when overtaking him. But as both his brother and rival, I know his strengths and don’t hesitate to acknowledge them.”
“I have no problem admitting where he’s stronger. I’m always learning and giving my best. The idea that I hold back because of respect is nonsense, and I want that misconception to end.”
“Today, Marc had great speed, and I gave my absolute best. I’m satisfied with second place. There are areas where he’s stronger, but I’m constantly working to improve.”
(Photo courtesy of Michelin)