Marc Marquez Takes Immediate Risks Amid Wet Conditions at Phillip Island, Gains Little Insight for Race Strategy

Marc Marquez immediately taking chances, but lacks valuable data for the race

Marc Marquez comments on the rainy Friday at Phillip Island

Marc Marquez expressed that he was "immediately taking risks" during practice at the MotoGP Australian Grand Prix to secure a spot in Q2. However, he acknowledged that he hasn't gathered "any valuable insights" for the upcoming race.

On Friday, due to bad weather, only a single session was conducted as FP1 had to be called off.

This resulted in the participants having only one hour in the afternoon to start getting acquainted with the new asphalt at Phillip Island. Meanwhile, the looming possibility of rain pressured everyone to aim for fast lap times.

Marc Marquez posted the quickest time, clocking in at 1 minute 27.770 seconds, and spearheaded a Gresini team sweep, finishing ahead of his brother Alex.

Reflecting on his day, the eight-time world champion noted that he began with a positive sensation on the counterclockwise track at Phillip Island, though he mentioned that "there are a few areas that need enhancement."

"Certainly, right from the beginning, I was pushing the limits during those initial laps, particularly since the weather was extremely overcast," he remarked.

"I ensure that I consistently hold top positions, as it's important to remember that practice sessions provide the opportunity to directly qualify for Q2."

"At that moment, we got off to a strong start. I feel confident while racing."

"Nevertheless, there are some areas that need enhancement. However, just like every Friday, it's time for us to delve deeper into our work, as I am aware that others will catch up gradually."

Michelin has introduced three rear tire options for the Australian Grand Prix, with both the medium and hard variants designed with a more rigid casing to handle the intense heat stress.

Due to the risk of rain during Practice, opportunities for race running were limited. As a result, Marquez will start Saturday without extensive information about how the tyres perform over longer distances.

"Naturally, the strategy was entirely distinct," he mentioned.

"Typically, the focus is on preparing for the entire race. Today, we aimed to prepare for the full length of the race."

"We were giving it our all in every lap to secure a spot among the leaders, and then came the moment for an all-out push."

"There wasn't much helpful information today. However, we will have another opportunity to analyze the rear tire tomorrow."

"Currently, the tires perform well for about 15 laps. However, the race consists of approximately 30 or 29 laps. We’ll have to see if we can maintain good performance in dry conditions for a longer period tomorrow."

After being eliminated in the Q2 stages in three of the past four grand prix events, Marquez has understandably highlighted the importance of Saturday's qualifying when questioned about his current position in the rankings.

"Certainly, it's a track that I enjoy and historically feel more comfortable on compared to others," he stated.

"Today we got off to a promising start, but tomorrow's qualifying session is crucial, and we'll have to see how it goes."

"The results from that qualifying session will reveal our capabilities for both the sprint and Sunday's race."

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