MotoGP | Portuguese GP Day 1, Marc Marquez: “I'm very happy”

MotoGP Ducati Gresini – Marc Marquez started the Portuguese Grand Prix in the best possible way, the second race of the 2024 MotoGP scheduled on the Portimao circuit.

The eight-time world champion in fact finished third in the session which decides direct access to Q2 and in addition to being fast on the flying lap, he was also fast on the race pace.

The feeling with the Ducati Desmosedici GP 23 is growing and the Spaniard is increasingly a protagonist. Here's what the #93 of Gresini Racing said to Sky Sport.

Marc Marquez Statements Day 1 GP Portugal MotoGP 2024

“It was a very positive day, I'm very happy. There was also a slip at turn 5 but it's a good Friday, we worked well and with used tire the pace was good. We know where we have to work, I know where I have to improve, tomorrow we will try to take another step. I was surprised by the improvement of the track, tomorrow it will be more difficult, but at the moment the goal is the Top 5 and it's more fun.”

Marc Marquez Statements Day 1 Race Pass Portuguese GP MotoGP 2024

“Today looking at the pace we are in the Top 3, qualifying and then the Sprint Race will be important. Pecco (Bagnaia), Jorge (Martin) will arrive tomorrow and Bastianini went strong. Now the team knows me better and I know them and the bike better, now we will have to understand how to improve the point where I crashed without penalizing others. Now I'm putting more determination into it given the feeling, let's see, but I think there are still 2/3 stronger riders.”

Statements Marc Marquez Day 1 Physical GP Portugal MotoGP 2024

“My arm has had four operations but is working well. Here on a very physical track he works well and I'm happy with how I feel physically. This allows you to get off to a good start on Friday knowing that your body will last until Sunday."