Marquez downplays expectations for COTA race
Kosport Magazine – 04/18/2024
The Circuit of the Americas has been a happy hunting ground for Marc Marquez, with the eight-time world champion winning seven times at the track in his MotoGP career. However, as the third round of the 2024 season approaches, Marquez is downplaying expectations for another victory at the circuit.
In an exclusive interview with Kosport Magazine, Marquez spoke about his past success at COTA and his approach to the upcoming race. “Obviously, we arrive at a good race track for my riding style,” he said. “In the past, we achieved many good results. But right now, there are three or four riders faster than me.”
Despite achieving his first sprint podium on the Gresini Ducati in Portugal last month, Marquez is not getting ahead of himself. “If today you say you will achieve your first podium, I would sign for it,” he said. “Before a victory, the podium must arrive first. So, let’s see step by step.”
Marquez also acknowledged that his approach to COTA will be different on the Ducati compared to the Honda, given the “completely different concepts” of the machines. “Of course, they are completely different concepts of bike and being ridden in a different way,” he explained. “Honda was super strong in those stop-and-go corners, as for example Alex Rins showed here last year. Let’s see how the Ducati is working here.”
But despite the challenges, Marquez is determined to enjoy the race and try to flow on the track. “It’s a race track that I like and when you arrive on a race track you like, at least you enjoy,” he said. “So, we will try to enjoy it and then we will see. Of course, there are two, three riders who are super fast and they have been fast in the past here. So, it will be difficult to achieve that victory.”
Marquez’s history at COTA
Since his maiden victory at COTA in 2013, Marquez has dominated the track, winning every year between 2013 and 2018. However, his last victory at the circuit was in 2021, and he is aware that the competition has gotten tougher.
Marquez’s approach to the race
Marquez is known for his aggressive riding style, but he acknowledges that he will have to adapt to the Ducati’s different characteristics at COTA. He also recognizes the strength of his competitors, including Alex Rins and Joan Mir, who have shown impressive performances at the track in the past.
Looking ahead
While Marquez remains optimistic about his chances at COTA, he is also realistic about the challenges he will face. He knows that his first priority is to achieve better results in the Sunday races before aiming for a victory. But with his past success at the track, Marquez is determined to give it his all and enjoy the race. Stay tuned for more updates from Kosport Magazine.
