VR46 BOSS SAYS MARQUEZ HAS ENJOYED A REMARKABLE RUN OF LUCK

Marc Marquez’s dramatic qualifying performance at the Australian Grand Prix has prompted VR46 team manager Pablo Nieto to marvel at the Spaniard’s good fortune — though journalist Mela Chercoles suggested it may also reflect his skill.

Marquez crashed at Turn 4 early in Q2, but the low-speed fall happened at the circuit’s slowest corner, close to the pits. He was able to get back on track using his spare bike and then claimed pole position by almost 1.5 seconds in the rain. It was the biggest pole-winning margin since his standout lap at Brno in 2019.

Chercoles, speaking on Nico Abad’s YouTube channel, relayed Nieto’s reaction: “The guy’s got an incredible amount of luck.” She noted that the crash’s location made it unusually easy for Marquez to return to the pits, adding: “When luck repeats itself that often for the same person, maybe it’s less about luck and more about skill, right? That’s just how it is with Marc.”

Marquez’s recovery also recalled his Jerez Sprint victory earlier in the year. He fell during a rain shower, got up and crossed the track to enter the pit lane, avoiding a penalty despite controversy over how he rejoined. In Australia, he went on to win the Sprint after a contest with title rival Jorge Martin, who crashed out. The result extended Marquez’s championship advantage to 10 points.

However, the Australian Grand Prix was cancelled because of adverse weather, a development that may have preserved Martin’s remaining title hopes. The Aprilia rider was subsequently ruled out with a fractured wrist.

Marquez has also missed the French and Catalan rounds while recovering from foot and shoulder surgeries. He may believe that, without those absences, he would already have a firmer grip on the championship. The 33-year-old is pursuing an eighth premier-class title, which would take him past Valentino Rossi, the VR46 team owner.