Marc Marquez: My motivation is huge, it’s time to enjoy
When Marc Marquez romped to the 2019 MotoGP crown by over 150 points he looked firmly on course to be a nine or ten-time world champion by the start of the 2022 season.
Instead, he's been struck down by arm and eye injuries for the past two seasons, albeit salvaging three wins (Honda's only victories) during 15 out of a possible 32 race starts.
Uncertainly over the recovery from last October's double-vision problems put Marquez's pre-season in doubt, but the problem cleared just in time to ride at both the Sepang and Mandalika tests.
While his general physical condition was still lacking after months of enforced rest, Marquez and the all-new Honda were soon setting competitive lap times.
Although he didn't join team-mate Pol Espargaro in leading a day of testing, opting against a final day time attack, Marquez set a formidable average pace at Mandalika - prompting some to suggest he might be holding back…
All could be revealed in Qatar this weekend, an event the 29-year-old is approaching with the intention to not only enjoy himself, but to enjoy 'fighting at the front'.
Marquez also made clear his goal is to take on the new generation of stars - such as reigning champion Fabio Quartararo, title runner-up Francesco Bagnaia and 2020 title winner Joan Mir - and fight for the title.
“Well, what can I say about the start of 2022? After what we have overcome recently my motivation to start the season is huge, we have come through something difficult and now it’s time to enjoy," Marquez said.
"But not just enjoying riding, enjoying competing and enjoying fighting at the front again.
"This is my tenth year in the MotoGP class and now I am one of the most experienced in the class, there’s many new competitors but the goal is still the same: to fight for the World Championship.
"We arrive with a new bike, so we need to see how it behaves in Qatar, but we have built a good base and I am looking forward to the weekend and to racing again.
"It will be my first-time racing in Qatar since 2019, but I am ready. Let’s get the season started!”
Free practice begins at 13:40 on Friday with the season-opening night race at the earlier than usual time of 18:00 on Sunday.
