Alex Marquez Tops MotoGP UK FP1, Beats Bezzecchi

The summer break is officially over, and the second half of the 2026 MotoGP season kicked off with immediate drama. Alex Marquez started the weekend in style at Silverstone, clocking the fastest time in Free Practice 1 with a 1:58.692s lap. The BK8 Gresini Racing rider's pace sent a clear message of intense competition ahead.

Behind him, Marco Bezzecchi of Aprilia Racing trailed by just 0.173s. This result is particularly emotional given Bezzecchi is returning from a fractured left collarbone. His resilience was immediately tested on the fast British circuit, proving he remains a serious title contender.

Close Battle at the Top

Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM) secured third place, also breaking into the 1:58s bracket. Meanwhile, Raul Fernandez, fresh from signing a contract extension with Trackhouse, impressed in fourth. Fabio Di Giannantonio (VR46) rounded out the top five, with less than 0.5s covering the leading pack.

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Reigning champion Marc Marquez had to settle for sixth, while championship leader Jorge Martin could only manage eighth. This gap is a concern for the Aprilia team, though FP1 is not always indicative of true race pace.

Franco Morbidelli and Francesco Bagnaia took ninth and tenth, respectively. Yamaha test rider Augusto Fernandez was back as a wildcard to continue development of their V4 machine. Action continues in Practice, scheduled for Friday (7/8) at 22.00 WIB.