Jorge Martin Issues Foreboding Forecast for Marc Marquez’s Ducati Debut
George Martin makes a dire prediction for Marc Márquez’s Ducati debut
Pramac Racing driver George Martin shared his intriguing prediction after closely watching Marc Marquez during the three-day test at Sepang. The MotoGP scene will take on a new dimension with Marquez’s move from Repsol Honda to Gresini Ducati, and Martin’s words hint at a difficult debut for the Spanish rider with his new team.
Although Márquez was a little lost during the Sepang test, Jorge Martin is not underestimating the six-time MotoGP champion’s abilities. Martin said Marquez was exactly where he expected, predicting the Spanish driver would be very close to winning the first race in Qatar.
“That’s what I expected,” Martin said of Marquez, who finished sixth in Thursday’s testing with the sixth-fastest average lap time. “He will be very close to winning in Qatar.”
MotoGP riders will face two days of testing in Qatar ahead of the season opener, scheduled for March 8-10. Martin, who finished second in the last championship behind Ducati rider Francesco Banaia, avoided speculation of an immediate showdown with Banaia.
“I don’t know, I don’t know anything,” he replied. “I’m focused on improving my skills and skating. The rest will follow.”
Martin expressed his readiness to take on the challenges of the new season, emphasizing that the previous season taught him valuable lessons. He expects to be a strong contender, but notes that the competition will be tight, with several strong riders competing.
The Pramac Racing driver, who delivered an impressive performance on the third and final day of testing at Sepang, stressed the importance of understanding tire performance as many drivers set a fast pace during testing.
In addition, Martin is focused on resolving his bike’s fairing issues, which adds to his confidence in the Pramac Team’s overall package for the 2024 season.
As MotoGP prepares for a season full of expectations and changes, Jorge Martin’s words added to the mystery and anticipation of Marc Márquez’s first appearance for Ducati.
