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After the first glimpses of great competitiveness demonstrated during the tests, the first round in Thailand was Alex Marquez's confirmation that he can further be a role player in the championship. Thanks to a second place in the Sprint and the second step of the podium in the race, once again, behind his brother Marc, it seems like the Spanish rider will have his say in the MotoGP. However, to do so, he'll have to battle it out with the other Ducatis, namely, Bagnaia's and his brother's. When asked if this will be his year, Alex joked about it. "If he'll let me," he admitted to reporters, pointing to his brother in red.
"I'm super happy to be here," Alex began. "We're off to a good start, so far. We've done a good job with the team, and we've had some good performances. The first race for us was a confirmation, but we still need to improve." The Gresini rider continued, pointing to the two official Ducatistas: "These two still have something more, even if we get a little closer each time. So, it's clear that we still have to work to improve, but without forgetting to have fun," the Gresini team rider explained. "Argentina is a track I like, but things change every year. We weren't here last year. It could be a completely different story compared to Thailand, so we'll see what happens."
You talked about how Marc and Pecco have something more. What is it?
"For me, they have more control over the whole package. On his part, Pecco really has the bike under control, and he's definitely the rider with more experience on this bike. These are small things. Marc has his strengths and Pecco also has his, so we'll have to work on the details to close the gap and make a difference."
Do you feel that the time has also come for you to win a lot. That it's your time?
"If you'll allow me to...," Alex answered jokingly, pointing to his brother beside him. "I think we have everything we need. So, I think so. But, to be in the top three in the championship, you have to have everything in order. You need that to win many races. I think we'll have to approach things calmly and without rushing. Everything has its time."
We learned the news just a few days ago that Pirelli will replace Michelin as the tire supplier for MotoGP starting in 2027. What do you think about that?
"I can't say I have experience in changing tires in the MotoGP, as it was for Marc, nor did I experience the change from Dunlop to Pirelli in the Moto2, but it's a decision of the championship, and I think we'll just have to adapt."
Martin's absence weighs heavily on the start of the championship. He may not be on the grid before Jerez. Do you think you should redo the grid photo when he returns, since he's not in it?
"I think he deserves it. His return would be a good opportunity to take the third photo and fix things."
There's also the condition of the Argentine track, which is always a big topic of debate.
"I practiced this morning, and it seemed like it was in good condition," the Spanish rider said, reassuringly.
