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Sixty pole positions in 120 races in the top class. Marc Marquez was, on and off, the fastest on Saturday afternoon. A fourth consecutive pole in Silverstone, seven in total for the season so far. Record numbers for Marc who had to rely on strategy, which has become his best friend and weapon.
"Strategy was fundamental today ," said Marc. "My first lap was good but not exceptional. Then, the second time, it went simply like this: we were all there together, and I, being the world champion and with a time already, I didn't want to pull anyone along. It's a bit like Mugello for me here I suffer when I ride alone."
An excellent result for Marquez who is, however, the culmination of Friday's and this morning's work. What were his strengths today?
"I'm really happy because I had made up my mind that this would have been a weekend of defense and suffering," Marquez said, "but I'm actually having fun. The pole is a good result because I had doubts on the track on Thursday. I struggled last year, but from the FP1s, I saw that I could do well with the new asphalt. In qualifying, I waited for the last moment and managed to get a good time racing with Rossi."
He then took advantage of Rossi's time references. Valentino had finished second and will start with Marc tomorrow. Can Valentino be a problem for the race?
"It won't be easy to beat Valentino because he's the man on Sunday and always does well in the race," said Marquez. "But there are also the other Yamaha riders who have a great pace. Vinales and Quartararo are there, and I wouldn't forget about Dovizioso who is climbing back up and is improving visibly."
So could it be a group race?
"Maybe. And, if it is, I'll have to be careful because they all have little to lose here and a lot to gain. If any melees should happen, I won't pull back, but I'll have to respond only when I have a certain margin. My goal is the championship."
Would it be better to battle it out with Rossi or with Dovizioso tomorrow?
"Dovi is the only one I prefer not to battle it out with," Marquez said, "and not because he beat me in Austria but because he's my rival in the league, and I'd be risking a lot. I prefer to go solo or battle it out with the Yamahas. Their goal now is winning races and being among the first. Whether it's Rossi, Vinales, or Quartararo, it doesn't change a thing."
Audio recorded by Matteo Aglio
