MOTEGI BECOMES A CRUCIAL TEST FOR MARQUEZ’S TITLE BID

Marc Marquez returns to Motegi carrying a powerful memory and a pressing championship challenge. A year ago, he finished second at the Japanese Grand Prix to secure his seventh premier-class title, matching Valentino Rossi’s tally and claiming his first championship with Ducati. The result capped a remarkable comeback after the arm injury he suffered at Jerez in 2020, four major operations and difficult final seasons with Honda. Marquez later described the title day as a moment when he found “peace” within.

The circumstances are very different this time. Just days after winning the 2025 title, Marquez injured his shoulder in Indonesia. The lingering effects have hampered him this season, and his surgeon has said his right bicep is working at about half its full capacity. Marquez has preferred not to dwell on his physical condition, but it remains part of the challenge as he tries to reclaim the championship.

He arrives in Japan 12 points behind leader Jorge Martin after a strong run of results. At one stage Marquez was 102 points off the top; five grand prix victories have brought him back into contention, although rivals’ mistakes have also helped. He briefly led the standings after the San Marino round. His wins include dominant weekends in Hungary, Germany and Aragon, plus a main-race victory at Brno and a Misano win after Aprilia riders Marco Bezzecchi and Martin encountered trouble.

Austria, however, was a missed chance. Ducati had expected a difficult weekend, and the stiffer Michelin rear tyre casing proved troublesome. Marquez took a sprint podium, but a brake problem in the grand prix cost him what he believed could have been second place; he finished fifth. Martin extended his advantage, while Bezzecchi also gained ground.

Motegi’s stop-start layout has traditionally suited Ducati, and Aprilia has not been as strong there. But the circuit’s resurfaced asphalt brings uncertainty. Michelin has expanded its tyre options, including a hard rear with the stiffer casing used in Austria. If the new surface makes that tyre the best choice, Ducati could be at a disadvantage: Aprilia is better able to bring it up to temperature.

The Japanese round could prove pivotal. Marquez needs a major points haul and help from Martin, with a demanding stretch ahead. Indonesia follows, where Marquez has struggled and the track may be tough on his body; Phillip Island and Sepang also present challenges. The Qatar round’s status is uncertain amid the war in Iran, while Portugal is another difficult venue. Valencia, the season finale, may suit him better, but he must keep his title bid alive until then.

Asked in Austria what gives him the biggest advantage over his rivals, Marquez answered: “My bike and my team.” He again stressed that bond ahead of Motegi, saying last year’s Japanese Grand Prix had created “a special bond between me and the Ducati Lenovo Team.” He added that the affection of Japanese fans gives him “an extra boost,” and said: “Motegi is a track I really enjoy: the goal is to do well and be competitive.”