Marc Marquez: “In 2025, the Aprilias were much faster than the others”

Marc Marquez has made good use of the break between the Indonesian Grand Prix and the race weekend in Australia. He took some time out in Bali with his girlfriend, Gemma Pinto. There, he was able to relax and prepare for the intense season finale.

In the overall standings, the Ducati rider trails championship leader Jorge Martin (Aprilia) by two points ahead of the final five Grands Prix. Will this be a crucial weekend at Phillip Island for picking up points for the championship? “It’s going to be an interesting weekend – especially because of the weather forecast,” mused the 33-year-old. “I like this track; I’m usually competitive here. Last year, though, the Aprilias were much faster than the others. We’ll see in practice where we and the Aprilia riders stand.”

In 2025, Aprilia set the pace at the Phillip Island Circuit. Factory rider Marco Bezzecchi won the Sprint, whilst Trackhouse rider Raul Fernandez took victory in the Grand Prix. Marc Marquez was absent last year. After securing the World Championship title early at the Japanese Grand Prix, he was taken out by ‘Bez’ during the race in Indonesia. MM93 injured his shoulder, bringing his season to an end.

The weather is set to be fine on Friday, but the forecast for Saturday and Sunday looks less promising. “It’s the same for everyone. Ultimately, you have to focus on each individual day,” emphasised the nine-time world champion. “On Friday, I’ll be aiming to finish in the top 10. On Saturday, we’ll have to see what needs to be done. Here at Phillip Island, the weekends are always changeable, which makes it more difficult for the riders.”

Marc Marquez: “I also have fond memories of 2024”

The Australian Grand Prix is being held at Phillip Island for the last time. Marc Marquez has secured a total of five Grand Prix victories across all classes at the legendary circuit – he claimed his last win there in 2024. What feelings and memories does he associate with this track?

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22.10.2026 - 23:55

“I have fond memories. It’s true that I’ve made a few mistakes in the past. Whenever I’d won the title at Motegi, I’d come here and crash,” Marquez said with a smile. “But I changed that in 2019 – after winning the title at Motegi, I won here again. I also have fond memories of 2024. That was a fantastic race too, with the burnout at the start. So yes, it’s a circuit I like.”