Marc Marquez Struggles to Keep Pace with GP24s at Austrian GP
Marc Marquez, the six-time MotoGP champion, faces a significant challenge at the Austrian Grand Prix, where he is struggling to keep up with the pace of the Ducati GP24s, ridden by his teammates Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin. Although Marquez has secured four podiums so far in the 2024 season, including three consecutive top-three finishes between Jerez and Barcelona, he has yet to reach the top step of the podium with Ducati.
After Friday’s sessions at the Red Bull Ring, Marquez admitted that, despite having one of his best days of the season, he is still not at the same level as the leaders. “It was a very positive day for us, but we are still a step behind Bagnaia and Martin, who are the top guys,” commented the Spaniard.
When asked about his chances of winning the Austrian GP, a race he never won during his time with Honda, Marquez was realistic: “No. I would like to say yes, but unfortunately [not]. We are closer, but I still feel like I’m a step behind. We are in the second group, along with Morbidelli and Bastianini. Let’s see if tomorrow I can work on the small details and be a bit more consistent.”
Ducati has historically performed well in Austria, with seven of its eight riders finishing in the top ten during Friday’s sessions. However, Marquez highlighted that tires have also played an important role in his improved performance at the Spielberg circuit.
Spielberg is one of three tracks where Michelin has introduced a different tire profile, which has helped riders who have not fully adapted to the standard 2024 tires. Marquez noted that the new tire suits his riding style better: “For me, with this tire, I feel more natural. With the new rear tire they introduced this year [for most of the season, but not for Spielberg], the new technology, I don’t feel it naturally, from the lean to the traction.”
He added: “I feel like there is a big difference in grip between one tire type and the other, it’s like they’re two different tires. But with this one, it feels much more natural, and for me, the bike’s movement is more predictable.”
Although Marquez is optimistic about improving his performance throughout the weekend, he also recognizes that the gap to Bagnaia and Martin may be too large to close in time for Sunday’s race. Even so, the Spaniard is determined to refine his approach and extract the maximum potential from his Ducati at the Red Bull Ring.
The Austrian GP will be another test for Marquez, who continues to seek his first victory with Ducati in a season full of challenges and ups and downs. Meanwhile, his rivals remain strong, and the Spaniard knows that he will need an extra effort to stay competitive and aim for a strong result in the race.
