Marc Marquez, the Gresini rider, faced a significant challenge during Friday’s practice at the Algarve International Circuit. He managed to secure a spot in Q2 for the upcoming race weekend, but not without some setbacks. Despite registering his first crash on the Ducati, Marquez remained optimistic about his ability to adapt to the new bike. He mentioned that a “small change” to the bike increased his confidence, allowing him to push harder. However, the transition wasn’t seamless, as his instinct for riding the Honda took over during a critical moment, leading to the crash.
Marquez highlighted the importance of confidence in pushing the limits on a new bike. He emphasized that increased confidence allowed him to step out of his comfort zone and explore the full potential of the Ducati. The crash during the time attack served as a learning experience for Marquez, forcing him to analyze his mistake and adjust his riding style accordingly. He acknowledged that the Ducati required a different approach compared to the Honda, particularly in terms of managing speed and entry points. Despite the initial challenges, Marquez expressed his excitement about riding the Ducati in Portugal and believed that managing a race distance would be easier than in previous races.
Marquez reflected on his struggles during previous races, particularly in Qatar, where he felt a lack of confidence and struggled to push the bike to its limits. He admitted to riding conservatively out of fear of crashing, highlighting the importance of confidence in achieving optimal performance. However, the experience in Portugal offered a glimmer of hope, as Marquez felt more comfortable on the Ducati and started to understand the bike’s nuances better. With the support of his crew chief, Frankie Carchedi, Marquez believed that he was on the right track to unlocking the Ducati’s full potential and improving his lap times.
Marc Marquez’s journey to adjust to riding the Ducati has been a challenging yet rewarding experience. Despite facing setbacks and crashes, Marquez remained determined to overcome the obstacles and master the new bike. By focusing on building confidence, understanding the Ducati’s unique characteristics, and making necessary adjustments to his riding style, Marquez demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. As he continues to fine-tune his approach and work closely with his team, Marquez is poised to make significant strides in his performance and potentially achieve success on the Ducati.
Leave a Reply