Austrian GP Practice Top Spot – Marc Márquez: “Understanding Braking Points Was the Biggest Challenge” | MotoGP 2025
Marc Márquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) finished Friday on top at the Austrian Grand Prix, but the journey to the fastest lap of 1’28.117 wasn’t without its hurdles. The championship leader admitted that it took time to find a comfortable rhythm, particularly with braking—an aspect he described as the most demanding part of the Red Bull Ring.
Marc Márquez:
“Not bad. It just took a bit of time to reach a comfortable feeling. Through FP1 and the early part of Practice, I gradually came to understand the proper braking points and lines. I definitely want to secure a front-row start in tomorrow’s qualifying.”
“Braking points were by far the most difficult part today. It’s the key aspect of this circuit. Once you understand exactly where to brake, you can ride consistently and maintain competitiveness.”
Focused on His Main Rival: Pecco Bagnaia
Looking ahead, Márquez identified Francesco Bagnaia, last year’s Austrian GP winner, as his biggest threat for the weekend. Bagnaia had strong pace on Friday and remains a constant presence at the front.
“Pecco won here last year, and today he was riding very well again. His race pace looked solid, so he’ll be the main rival, for sure. It all depends on the race situation, of course—whether to attack or defend—but practice and qualifying are absolutely crucial to set things up.”