The eight-time grand prix world champion gears up for his inaugural season with Ducati after spending 11 seasons with Honda.
Finishing pre-season testing on a competitive note, Marquez expressed last month his pursuit of finding the final three tenths of lap time to match the leading riders.
Speaking ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix weekend, Marquez shares his positive sentiments regarding the 2023-spec Ducati after a pre-season marked by significant adjustments. However, he remains cautious about his podium prospects.
Marquez remarked, “This winter was a complete departure from my usual routine of bike development. Instead, I focused on refining my riding style to adapt to the new bike, and from the outset, I felt comfortable.”
Acknowledging the high expectations on his performance with the championship-winning bike, Marquez emphasized the importance of patience, stating, “There’s no need to rush. I’m not aiming to win immediately, especially considering I haven’t won a race in the last two years.”
He further reflects on his career stage, recognizing the necessity to learn from younger riders to stay competitive. Marquez added, “I need to learn and adapt my riding style to riders like Jorge Martin, Pecco Bagnaia, and Enea Bastianini, who have mastered this bike.”
He concluded, “Every athlete experiences highs and lows, and it’s crucial to keep pace with the younger generation, like Fabio Quartararo and Pedro Acosta, to maintain competitiveness.”
