Marc Marquez has returned with the Repsol Honda Team after his nine-month injury nightmare. This was the emotional story of his MotoGP return at Portuguese Grand Prix as it happened.
The Spaniard has been out of action since he broke his right arm in last year’s delayed season opener at Jerez in July. Stefan Bradl replaced Marquez at both races Qatar and Doha. But at Algavre Circuit, on Sunday night, Marquez finished at seventh and earned his first point.
“It’ll be a more normal weekend in terms of emotions. What can I fight for? My body will decide. I can’t do a full race at my best yet,” Marquez said.
“My goal is to stay closer to the leaders, but each circuit is different story. The title? There are many races left. If we were a championship like last year’s, with many ups and downs, anything could happen.
“But if you ask me today, the answer is that I can’t think about the title because I’m not prepared. One of my goals is to fight for a victory as soon as possible.” Marquez added.
Jorge Martin ruled out of Portuguese Grand Prix after a nasty Turn 7 carsh. The rookie got caught up with his Pramac Ducati in a horrible-looking crash at Portimao during FP3.
“I never been afraid on the weekend but, in the FP3, I saw Martin’s accident and, then, when I started my fastest lap, my brother crashed in front of me at Turn 3 so I said ‘I’ll finish the lap and end this practice session.” Marquez said.
Marquez now settles into a familiar rhythm, a week away from the circuit before returning for round for in Jerez.
