CHENNAI: The maths is straightforward for Marc Marquez. Unless a minor miracle transpires, he will lift the MotoGP premier-class title on Sunday. With a lead of 21 points (25 points is the maximum one can earn in a race), the Repsol Honda rider just needs to finish within the top 11 in the final race in Valencia.
But the defending champion knows he has to keep his focus intact. Ever since he joined MotoGP in 2010, the racer from Cervera, Spain, has impressed many with his ability to blend the power of his bikes with plenty of flair.
The No 93 biker (1993 is his year of birth) has crossed the finishing line on top on as many as 35 occasions in the premier-class, surpassing multiple records in the process. In 167 Grand Prix races, the 24-year-old has finished on the podium 101 times, winning 61. With those standout statistics, he has been rightfully backed to rack up more wins in years to come. He might possess superhuman abilities, but he is not immune to feeling the pressure, especially ahead of last test.
“It will be natural to feel some pressure in Valencia with so much at stake, but honestly there has been pressure for the entire second part of the season. And the fact that we’ve been able to manage some tricky situations, as was the case at the last race in Malaysia, gives me a positive feeling,” was his first take after landing in Valencia.
Risk-taking is a trait that has always been associated with Marquez. It was evident in Malaysia when he was the first one off the block and manoeuvred past the crowd in wet conditions.
Also known for making spectacular saves, he has already ruled out taking a safety-first approach and said that he will look to finish as high as possible.
Off the track, he is a big hit too. Considered a highly-likeable personality, he does not shy away from the fans, media. With a bright smile, he has embraced all that comes with fame.
In Valencia, he has won just once (2014) in four attempts but he did finish on the podium on the other three occasions.
“Regarding the track, I feel good because I like Valencia. It’s an anticlockwise circuit, which normally suits me,” he assessed.
“We definitely don’t think it will be easy, so we won’t go to Valencia with any extra confidence. We’ll keep the same mentality and working method that have brought us to where we are.”
With six victories this season and many unforgettable rides in that period, he has already added to his reputation. Come Sunday, it won’t be a surprise if he rides to glory without a fuss.
anmol@newindianexpress.com