Alex Márquez on Qatar: “Nobody has a situation like this under control”

The MotoGP weekend at Phillip Island presents Alex Márquez with a number of unknowns. As well as the changeable weather forecast, the Gresini Ducati rider remains concerned about his shoulder. On Thursday, the Spaniard also commented on the possible staging of the race in Qatar – and his remarks were significantly more critical than those of some of his colleagues.

For now, however, his focus is on the conditions in Australia. Whilst Friday’s practice sessions promise favourable conditions, the weather could have a significant impact on the rest of the weekend. Marquez therefore does not want to commit to a forecast too early.

“Here on the island, everything can change from one day to the next. It looks as though we’ll have dry conditions and good temperatures for riding at Phillip Island tomorrow. That’s why we’re focusing on Friday first. After that, we’ll see what happens on Saturday and especially on Sunday, when things could get tricky,” explained the Spaniard.

The key, he said, is to react to the situation as it arises. “We’re taking it day by day and session by session. Then we’ll see what the situation is and what conditions we have for riding. As we all know, it always comes down to how well you adapt to the weather,” emphasised Márquez.

Márquez provides an update on his shoulder injury

The break since Mandalika has at least helped him physically. In Indonesia, he had still reported pain in his shoulder and explained that recovery after a race takes time. His assessment for Australia is more positive.

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22.10.2026 - 23:55

“When we have a break between races, I can recover quite well. I’ve arrived here feeling pretty well rested. But the three consecutive race weekends will be quite difficult for me. I’ll be pushing myself right to the limit physically,” explained the Ducati rider.

According to him, the cause of the problems is known. However, there is no quick fix whilst the racing season is underway. “We know where the problem lies and are trying to understand the situation together with the doctors. The plate, the bursitis – there’s a solution for everything that’s affecting me. But recovery takes a bit of time,” explained Márquez.

Qatar: A dynamic situation creates uncertainty

He is following developments in Qatar with particular attention. It remains to be seen whether the race can go ahead given the unrest in the region. The assurances provided by the championship organisers are not enough for him to dispel the uncertainty.

“The situation is changing every day and looks worse by the day. The championship organisers tell us that everything is under control. But I don’t believe anyone has such a complex situation under control. A great deal can change from one day to the next,” Marquez pointed out.

Nevertheless, he is not calling for an immediate decision. Instead, he expects the situation to be assessed objectively as it develops – even though a great deal is at stake economically for the event.

“I don’t think they need to make this decision right now. But over the next few days, they need to be realistic. Of course, there’s a great deal of money at stake in this agreement. I’d put it this way: Dorna wants to make everything possible. That’s the case, and I’m fine with that,” explained the Spaniard.

However, safety must not be reduced to just the riders. “They must also look after everyone’s health, because a great many people will be travelling there. That’s what they need to take care of,” Marquez cautioned.