Marco Bezzecchi
Marco Melandri believes Jorge Martin will face a test this weekend against teammate Marco Bezzecchi.
MotoGP returns to Brazil for the first time this weekend since 2004, when Makoto Tamada claimed victory on the Camel Honda.
The paddock will arrive at the Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna (Goiânia), for the second round of the 2026 season after Marco Bezzecchi won the opening race of the season at the Thailand Grand Prix.
However, this weekend could be a big test for the Aprilia Racing garage as Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin will go head-to-head once again after Martin returned to the top five at the opening race.
What’s your podium prediction for the Brazilian Grand Prix?
Does Martin have what it takes to ‘keep up with Bezzecchi’?
Former MotoGP rider, Marco Melandri, who lined up on the grid the last time MotoGP raced in Brazil, said on Chiacchiere da Box that this weekend will be a ‘litmus test’ for Martin.
The Italian believes that Martin needs to be able to fight against Bezzecchi this weekend, as in the past he has been able to adapt to new circuits.
Melandri said, “There’s a lot riding on this race, and in my view Martin is really counting on it because he knows he’s particularly strong on new tracks.
“So, this could be, let’s say, the litmus test of the season, where we’ll see whether Martin has what it takes to keep up with Bezzecchi or whether he’ll actually be able to match him.”
What career Grand Prix win did Marc Marquez score that he did not deserve?
Marco Melandri picks his Brazilian Grand Prix podium
In the same conversation, Melandri was asked for his prediction for the podium at this weekend’s Brazilian Grand Prix.
The Italian decided to pick Marc Marquez as his race winner, even though Melandri does not believe Marquez is the ‘fastest’ rider anymore. He also believes that Bezzecchi will feature on the podium in second place, with Pedro Acosta in third.
Melandri said, “MotoGP in Brazil – I’d say Marquez, because he’s the one who adapts best of all to new tracks, even though the reality is they’ll be on the same tyres as in Thailand, so the Ducati isn’t exactly the fastest or the favourite.
“But when it comes to learning a new track and adapting, he’s number one. Still, I expect Bezzecchi to put up a good fight. I reckon Marquez will win, but Bezzecchi will make him work for it. And keep an eye on Acosta; in my opinion, those three have been the closest of the lot for a while now.”
Receive racing news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
