RIVOLA EAGER TO SEE HOW MARQUEZ FARES AT PHILLIP ISLAND

Aprilia team principal Massimo Rivola is keen to see how Marc Marquez performs when MotoGP returns to Phillip Island, where the Spaniard has been especially strong. The Australian Grand Prix will be the championship’s final visit to the circuit, and Marquez is expected to return for the first time since winning there in 2024. He missed last year’s race after being injured at the preceding round in Indonesia.

Marquez is chasing an eighth premier-class world title and a fifth victory at Phillip Island. With Jorge Martin currently leading the standings by two points, the Australian round could be significant in their fight, particularly as it is one of the final five races of the season.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the Indonesian Grand Prix, Rivola acknowledged the challenge of competing against Marquez and Ducati. “It’s the most difficult thing we can face,” he said. Rivola added that Aprilia had managed to challenge them several times this season, calling the situation a “great” one for the team. “We’re fighting with the best possible combination, Marc and Ducati. If we’re here, it means a great job was done in Noale.”

Rivola also pointed to Marquez’s experience and judgement as major strengths in a title contest. Asked about the rider’s recovery after missing two rounds earlier in the season, he said: “I think he’s the one with the best chance, the most experienced – he’s been through this a million times.” He described Marquez as someone who can deliver the points required while limiting danger: “He’s the sort who, when he needs to score 37 points, scores 37; the one who takes the fewest risks where it could be dangerous.”

Phillip Island’s anti-clockwise layout is another reason Rivola is watching closely. Marquez has a strong record at left-hand circuits, but the Australian track’s high speeds and physical demands may test him, especially after the fitness challenges he has faced this season. “I’m really curious to see how he does at Phillip Island, a left-hand circuit, where he’s absolutely brilliant,” Rivola said.

Marquez’s form at such tracks has remained a notable asset during his campaign. Whether he can reproduce it at Phillip Island could shape the closing stages of his title battle with Martin.