Jorge Martin had to accept a bitter reality at Twin Ring Motegi after realizing that even his absolute best pace was not enough to stop his title rival's masterclass.
Starting from pole position, the Spaniard led the race early on, showcasing vastly improved machinery from Aprilia compared to previous years. However, unrelenting pressure from Marc Marquez paid off just before the halfway mark when the multi-time champion swept past at Turn 9.
Martin later admitted he had to manage fuel consumption during a crucial phase of the grand prix, a momentary setback that allowed Marquez to seize the lead and control the pace. Despite pushing hard until the chequered flag, he ultimately crossed the line 1.3 seconds adrift in second place.
The outcome at Motegi drastically tightens the championship battle, with Marquez's latest victory narrowing the gap at the summit to a razor-thin two points ahead of the remaining rounds.
"Even on one of my good days, it was impossible to beat him," Martin conceded to the media, though he took consolation in securing a milestone podium at a circuit where his factory squad historically struggled.
Baca Juga
Fabio Quartararo sebut rider MotoGP bodoh abaikan ban keras Motegi. Yamaha atasi masalah ban tapi kembali terkendala isu bahan bakar ekstrem.
Johann Zarco akui lupa regulasi mesin baru MotoGP 2026 yang berujung sanksi double long-lap pada balapan Grand Prix Jepang di Sirkuit Motegi.
Jorge Martin akui mustahil kalahkan Marc Marquez di MotoGP Jepang 2026 meski tampil optimal, membuat perebutan gelar juara dunia kian sengit.
Lanjutkan dengan Google
Diskusi & Komentar (0)
Mari Bergabung dalam Diskusi!
Masuk dengan mudah untuk mulai memberikan komentar, membalas, dan berinteraksi dengan pembaca lainnya.
Komentar Terbaru
Belum ada komentar. Jadilah yang pertama!