MARQUEZ SKIPS MOTEGI KART RACE, SENDS A STAND-IN
4 Oct 2026·
Marc Marquez skipped a kart race scheduled for Sunday morning during the Japanese Grand Prix weekend and sent a body double to take his place, prompting a stern reprimand from MotoGP championship organisers. The event was a new addition to the weekend programme, promoted by the championship shortly before the paddock arrived in Japan and intended to feature MotoGP riders. Marquez explained his absence bluntly: “We are not here to mess around or drive go karts.”