Marc Marquez has stated that he no longer sees himself as a “specialist” at new MotoGP tracks, asserting that all riders will be acclimated to the Goiania circuit before qualifying on Saturday.
Marquez’s skill in quickly pushing the limits and excelling in low-grip conditions had previously made him a significant contender when new tracks were added to the schedule. During the early stages of his career, he secured victories at the debut races in Austin, Termas de Rio Hondo, and Buriram, and also triumphed at Balaton Park last year.
However, he feels that this advantage has waned over the years, pointing to a lack of premier class victories at modern tracks like Portimao and Mandalika. “I used to be a specialist, but in the recent new tracks like Portimao and Indonesia, I’ve struggled to adapt,” he remarked to DAZN. “Goiania is a short track where we will complete many laps, making it less new by Saturday; longer tracks are more challenging for quick adaptation.”
Marquez emphasized the importance of being precise in short circuits due to the numerous laps on the same corners. He acknowledged that his early success was largely due to instinctive riding, while now, experience leads to a more calculated approach. “In my early 20s, I adapted incredibly quickly. I still can adapt well, but younger riders often adjust quicker due to their instinctive responses,” he commented.
Marquez’s Performance at New Tracks
| Circuit | Year | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Austin | 2013 | Winner |
| Termas de Rio Hondo | 2014 | Winner |
| Red Bull Ring | 2016 | 5th |
| Buriram | 2018 | Winner |
| Portimao | 2020 | Did not participate |
| Mandalika | 2022 | DNS |
| Balaton Park | 2025 | Winner |
The Autodromo Internacional Ayrton Senna spans just 3.83km, making it the second shortest track on the calendar. To offset limited testing time, MotoGP has extended Friday’s practice sessions for additional track exposure.
Marquez is confident that the combination of a shorter circuit and extended practice will help riders thoroughly familiarize themselves with Goiania. He also noted that the track’s layout features five left turns and nine right-hand turns, which may not suit his riding style as effectively. “I prefer more left corners, but I believe the layout is favorable overall.”
Impact of New Tyres on Ducati
Ducati’s streak of 88 podium finishes ended at the season-opening Thailand Grand Prix after Marco Bezzecchi’s commanding victory for Aprilia. For Brazil, Michelin is supplying three types of asymmetric rear tyres; two have a reinforced casing similar to those used at the Austrian GP, while the hard tyre is the same one that Marquez believes impacted Ducati at Buriram.
“We aim to score points and keep progressing,” Marquez stated, noting the upcoming challenges. “Tyres brought back from Thailand may not suit us. We need to adapt not only the bike but our riding, as Bezzecchi and [Pedro] Acosta are performing at a very high level. Their recent form is legitimate, and we must strive to narrow the gap and compete effectively.”
