Marco Bezzecchi
Alex Marquez stepped onto a MotoGP podium for the second time since 2023 with a terrific run to second at the Thailand Grand Prix.
Brother Marc Marquez even allowed him to lead more than half the race, as he opted to sit behind him in a bid to preserve his tyres.
The Gresini bike was impressive, but was missing another tenth or two to claim victory. Beating two-time champion Francesco Bagnaia was a significant triumph.
It’s the best season-opening result of Marquez’s career and further suggests that he will be in the frame for a top three finish in MotoGP’s riders’ championship.
Julia Marquez was privately ‘overwhelmed’ by the looming battle between her sons at the Grand Prix of Thailand.
In his first race for Ducati, it was Marquez with worrying ‘body language’ who seemed like he had more pace to use if required. An ominous sign for his rivals.
Alex Marquez says sharing Thailand Grand Prix podium with brother was ‘really special’
Gresini looked really impressive through pre-season testing and to the surprise of some, Alex came good when it mattered.
The 28-year-old’s best finish remains eighth, which he achieved in 2024 with his current team. He has been most comfortable on a Ducati bike through his career.
The evidence of Thailand suggests that a first victory may be around the corner with some luck. He has to beat his brother first though.
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Speaking on MotoGP’s Word on the Grid after the race, he mentioned how special the moment was for him and his family.
“Super start. I was at home last week and I said ‘OK, to be on the podium would be already great.’ To be second yesterday, second on the grid, second today. And share all these moments with my brother is really special.”
The MotoGP records that Marc Marquez is aiming to break in 2025
Although it’s early to be thinking about records and championship winners, Ducati’s position at the top of the pile looks strong.
Their ‘GP24.9’ bike is going to take some beating and a lot of development from their rivals to dethrone. The engine freeze shouldn’t hurt them too much.
Marquez can break two of MotoGP’s biggest records if he can have a good season in 2025, including becoming the oldest ever premier-class champion.
At the age of 32, he would be two years older than Valentino Rossi was when he secured the last of his crowns with Yamaha.
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