Alex Marquez once again proved to be the biggest threat to the Mark brothers, securing his fifth consecutive runner-up in the American Motogpusprint in Kota.
Third, Gresini Ducati Rider had a vigorous opening lap scrap VIP sheet between Marc and Factory Ducati teammate Francesco Bagnaia.
Alex had the opportunity to attack as Marc controlled his Desmocesic control almost in the vicinity. He sped temporarily before the factory riders, but quickly revolved to the mark, which continued to control the race.
Despite this, Alex had the scale of second place Bagnaia.
“I’m really, really happy. The sprint is the most satisfying thing,” Alex told Motogp.com. “Before the race, there were a lot of questions because we didn’t have much time in dry conditions.
“The second group was bigger, and to be honest, I was expecting it. But the gap to fourth place (Di Giannantonio, 8.5s) was really big.
“I was surprised about that. But the conditions were very strange and very different compared to this morning. So we need to ride in a really smooth way.”
Francesco Bagnaia, Alex Marquez, Mark Marquez, 2025 American Motogpusprint
The most visible example of changes in track conditions was the high side near Mark, a standout moment on the thrilling opening lap.
“I was on the first line of the audience, VIP!” Alex joked about the fight between the red machines. “Then I said, ‘I’m tired of seeing these two guys fighting, that’s my moment.’
“So I went inwards and then Pecco attacked me at Turn 19 in a really good way.
“I need to be a little more aggressive tomorrow.
“But all three of us lost time (on the opening lap) anyway, and it was a really great fight.”
The rear tire choice is at the forefront of Marquez’s mind ahead of the 20-lap Grand Prix, and could potentially switch from soft to medium look.
“There’s a lot to do for tomorrow, especially with the rear tires,” Alex confirmed.