Magic Marquez. The Spaniard put on his Cannibal outfit and took full spoils in Jerez, taking the win and the championship lead in a single blow. The Spaniard could not have hoped for more, also because the smash-up involving Dovizioso, Pedrosa and Lorenzo let him dig a significant trench in the overall standings. More precisely, 12 points over Zarco, 24 ahead of Dovizioso.
“Obviously I am very pleased – number 93 began – This win was just what we needed because it’s the first European race and we are in Spain. Jerez has always been a complicated track for me – he added – Plus, the weekend proved to be difficult since I crashed three times and started from the second row.”
The six-time world champion then went into more detail.
“I won without being fast – he analysed – Clean riding counted more than speed today, but especially making the right choices. I must say that Dani had a great pace, maybe better than mine, plus Lorenzo was a surprise on his Ducati.”
Marc then analyses the battle with Jorge.
“Being patient was essential – he stated – It was practically impossible to overtake him because he braked late and came out of the corners fast, so I waited for his tyres to begin to deteriorate and at that moment I realised that I needed to attack. That way I took the lead and maintained the pace.”
The number 93 rider then praises the Majorcan’s race.
“I said yesterday that Ducati would be competitive – he reminded – Dovizioso demonstrated that, but so did Jorge. In fact, Lorenzo rode like old times and it was a surprise. This was a complicated weekend – he added – because the temperature rose and tyre management became fundamental. It’s one thing to be fast in qualifying, but entirely another over a distance of 25 laps.”
There was also a comment about the smash-up between Pedrosa and the two Ducati riders.
“Unfortunately, I haven’t seen the images yet – he admitted – I heard that something happened, but I can’t comment. I just hope that none of them were hurt.”
Besides the win, Marc also made a great save.
“When I saw the stones, it was too late – he recalled – In that sector you arrive at 220 km/h. I tried to control the Honda and I guess somebody kept me on the bike.”
The final comment was on his celebration after crossing the finish line.
“It’s a dance that is very trendy in Spain – he revealed – It’s called Twist Twist. I tried to do it because after all, I’m still just a kid (joking).