Marc Marquez and Casey Stoner Dream Team: “They Were Different” – Livio Suppo Reflects
MotoGP’s story is full of iconic partnerships and legendary rivalries, but few combinations are as intriguing as that that almost united Marc Marquez and Casey Stoner on the same team. Livio Suppo, former Honda leader, recently reflected on this lost opportunity and the differences between these two giants of motorcycling.
An unfinished dream
Under the leadership of Suppo, Honda dominated MotoGP, winning titles with Stoner and later with Marquez. The idea of uniting these two forces in a single team represented a bold view that, unfortunately, never materialized. In an interview with the relief, Suppo explained: “The goal was to create a dream team with Marquez and Stoner. Each was different; each had its own character.”
Contrasting personalities and styles
Marc Marquez, known for his aggressive style and unparalleled talent for bold maneuvers, and Casey Stoner, famous for their pure speed and soft piloting, were extraordinary pilots with different approaches. Suppo pointed out: “It’s very interesting because they are pilots who always did their best and have a talent that is a pleasure to see on the track. But they were very different from each other.”
Stoner’s unexpected retirement at the age of 27, at the height of his career, eliminated any chance of seeing him compete alongside Marquez. In 2013, when Marquez made his debut on MotoGP, the idea was that he joined Stoner at Repsol Honda. However, Marquez hit the team alongside Dani Pedrosa and won the championship in his first attempt.
Dani Pedrosa’s career
Dani Pedrosa, another remarkable Honda pilot, demonstrated exceptional talent despite his minor physique and weight disadvantages. Suppo praised Pedrosa: “With the size of Pedrosa’s physique, what he did was very difficult. This showed that he had a monstrous talent and a special sensitivity.”
Despite his numerous victories, Pedrosa ended his career as MotoGP’s most successful rider, never winning a world title. Suppo commented: “I think it was a problem of opportunities. Still, Dani had a wonderful sports career; he has millions of fans around the world because everyone understood how difficult he was.”
Professional and personal relationships
Livio Suppo also reflected on his relations with the pilots throughout his career: “Of all the pilots I worked with, surely the one with whom I had the closest friendship was Nicky Hayden. The truth is that whenever I worked with the pilots, I tried not to become friends because I believe that if you are the boss of a team, you need to know how to separate friendship from professionalism.”
However, some relationships have evolved into sincere friendships. “For example, I am now a friend of Capossi, and I speak with Pedrosa often.
Honda’s attempt to form a dream team with Marc Marquez and Casey Stoner will remain one of MotoGP’s great missed opportunities. However, the bright careers of these pilots and their lasting impact on the sport continue to inspire and captivate fans around the world. The reflections of Suppo Livio offer a fascinating view of the dynamics and challenges within the motorcycle teams, highlighting the complexity and passion that define this exciting sport.
