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He may not have finished the first day ahead of the rest, but it doesn’t matter much. It is only Friday and Marc Marquez has already sent a very clear message, proving to be among the best in terms of race pace, on the same level as Pedrosa and Zarco. In the comparison with Dovizioso, the first round favours the five-time world champion. The Spaniard worked with the soft tyre for the entire session without changing it, obtaining positive feedback. And then the umpteenth crash was not lacking, the 26th to be precise. It is from this point that number 93 begins.
“I always hope it’s the last one - the Honda rider began - For a few reasons it works like that this year. What counts is not ending up in the gravel during the race - he continued - although in 2018 I expect a different bike and engine that will let me do without.”
In spite of the fact that the title awaits just around the corner, Marc has no intention of dropping his guard.
“I said it yesterday. In Valencia I still want to be the same Marquez as always - he commented - trying to give 100%. In any case, I am satisfied with this Friday - he added - I was able to be competitive with the tyres in terms of pace too. Today the thing that counted was just getting off to a good start and we did that.”
Nothing seems to distract the five-time world champion.
“During free practice I don’t dwell on the performance of the other riders - he revealed - I work thinking only about myself. In fact, my goal is to be ready for Saturday - he pointed out - even though at the end of the session I always look at what positions Dovizioso and my teammate are in.”
The first day of free practice brought out the qualities of various riders.
“I saw that Zarco and Dani are very strong in terms of race pace, although I am still focused on my own garage. We’ll see what position Andrea is in tomorrow.”
One thing is certain: right now the Ducati rider will have to catch up.
“If I were in his place, I would be worried - Marquez said - Andrea absolutely must finish first and there are a lot of riders that have demonstrated a great pace, so I wouldn’t sleep easy tonight if I were in his shoes.”
Someone reminded Marc about the 2006 season finale, when Rossi ended up in the gravel, handing the title to Nicky Hayden.
“In the race anything can happen, but I prefer not to think about that. In fact, my goal is to stay positive.”
Marquez’s mind is already on Saturday.
“The goal is to start from the front row - he revealed - On this track it is very difficult to overtake because the track is narrow, so that would be the best thing.”
His last comment is about the pressure.
“I am very calm and serene - he concluded - This season we have done something truly great and we are aware that we are close to an important milestone. Maybe the people around me are more tense than I am since, as I said, I have a happy and relaxed outlook on these days.”
