Marini (Honda) is worried about his health: “I’ve never had anything like this before!”

Luca Marini will have to contest the Australian Grand Prix as a lone rider in the Honda works team. Having already missed the races in Austria, Japan and Indonesia due to illness, his team-mate Joan Mir will also have to sit out the MotoGP weekend at Phillip Island. Meanwhile, Honda test rider Aleix Espargaró is suffering from chronic compartment syndrome (arm pump) – he must therefore undergo surgery in Barcelona.

On Thursday, Luca Marini attended the compulsory media session. He, too, is unwell. “I’m not feeling well. I was already ill at home. When I flew here, I had a fever. I don’t have a fever any more, but I’ve got severe muscle pain. I’ve never had anything like this in my life,” said the Italian. “I don’t know what’s going on. I’m off to the medical centre now for a quick check-up, because I didn’t have time for one in Italy – it was Sunday – and then I came straight here. I can’t assess my physical condition at the moment. It’s really strange.”

If his condition doesn’t improve quickly, Marini may have to worry about his Grand Prix participation. On top of that, the weather forecast for Saturday and Sunday looks anything but good. “A typical Phillip Island weekend,” smiled Valentino Rossi’s half-brother. “It’s crazy with the wind, it’s a bit cold and there’s always the chance of a bit of rain. On this track in particular, that takes the edge off the atmosphere a bit. It’s a wonderful track – when the sun’s shining and the temperatures are pleasant, it’s perhaps the most beautiful track in the world. But when the conditions aren’t like that, it’s really, really tough.”

Luca Marini on Phillip Island: “In some years, it was perhaps the best race of the year”

The Australian Grand Prix is taking place at Phillip Island for the last time, for the time being. From 2027, the event will be held in Adelaide. “In my opinion, Phillip Island has always been a wonderful race – for the spectacle and for the fans. In some years, it was perhaps the best race of the year,” enthused Marini. “In 2017 or 2018 – I can’t quite remember which – the race was incredible, and it was always great afterwards too. I hope it will be even better in Adelaide.”

For Marini, the race weekend at Phillip Island is special for another reason too: the trophies awarded to the top three every year. “In my opinion, the great thing about Phillip Island is always the trophy. It’s incredible and something I always dream of, but unfortunately I’ve never stood on the podium here. So let’s give it a go this year on a wet track,” smiled the 29-year-old. “If not, I hope there’ll be another fantastic trophy in Adelaide. It’s a piece of history with a unique style that you can only win here. And for the riders, the trophy is always important – at least for me.”

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22.10.2026 - 23:55