Marquez expects “tricky” race after lap record pole

The Spaniard broke his own circuit record around the Motorland circuit in qualifying to record a seventh pole of the season, and his fourth in six races, beating Yamaha’s Jorge Lorenzo by a tenth of a second.

But in spite of his searing qualifying pace, Marquez is taking nothing for granted – saying that it will be “tricky” to finish on the podium with Lorenzo, Dani Pedrosa and points leader Valentino Rossi also in contention for a top three placing.

“The rhythm is good, we did a huge step from yesterday this morning with the set-up, and I feel ready to fight for victory,” said the reigning champion.

“We know Jorge is really strong, and we cannot forget Dani, he’s very strong too, and tomorrow will be tricky to even stay on the podium because Valentino will for sure arrive in the race.”

Tyre management the key

Marquez added that tyre management would be crucial to victory on Sunday, highlighting that all the top riders are likely to opt for medium compound tyres front and rear.

“The key point is to manage the rear tyre, because it can overheat if you push always at the limit, and then the sliding starts,” he said. “So you must be really smooth.”

“When Jorge normally starts [well] and pushes from the beginning, you must follow and push, but also try to manage the situation [with the tyres],” he concluded.