Marquez: “We need more to fight for the championship”

Just like fabio quartararo, Marc Marquez did not hide his disappointment after the Valencia test which was held last Tuesday. Before these tests, the Honda driver already felt that Honda was late and this was indeed confirmed...

The Catalan only completed 50 laps compared to almost 100 for Quarterly. “We tested a prototype with a new aerodynamic package, a different chassis and the same engine with a small modification,” he confided. We didn't try many things, we focused on the prototype. There's not a big difference, a little more feeling at the front, but we lose in other areas, and the times of the two bikes were similar. » 

The evolution of the RC213V's propulsion is not yet at the level of that of other manufacturers, especially Ducati. “The engine develops a little more torque, but not much, we need more if we want to be close to the others,” he added. It was going in the right direction on one of the issues, but if you make progress in one area, you lose in another, it's a question of compromise. We have more or less the same problems, it's always the same character. They need to understand to progress in February. »

“With this bike, we won’t fight for the title” – Marc Marquez (Valencia Test)

With the arrival of Joan Mir and Alex Rins in the Honda clan for 2023, Marc Marquez resumes his leadership role in the development of the RC213V; Takaaki Nakagami just returning from injury. “I always expect more and it wasn't there, but the most important thing is that Honda is working,” adds Marquez. We know that they are working more for the February test than for now, and I hope for big progress at the Sepang test. I wouldn't say I'm disappointed, because Honda is working and will bring a new bike, but we need more to fight for the championship. With this bike, we won't be fighting for the title. »

Even if a hint of disappointment reigned through his words, Marquez nevertheless said he was optimistic about the future. “It’s been a long time since I’ve seen so many Japanese staff, there’s a reaction so it’s already a sign,” he assured. I didn't do many laps, I tried what I had to try. There was no reason to put on a soft tire and set a time, the time on one lap does not represent the potential of the bike. I just did my job and delivered my comments. Now it's up to them to work. »

The HRC engineers have been warned... A bit like at Yamaha, it's up to them to react if they don't want their best representative to find themselves mistreated during the 21 meetings of the 2023 calendar... If this is the case, 42 races to endure , it might take a long time.