Alex Rins’ hopes in the Indonesian MotoGP Sprint took a significant hit when contact with Marc Marquez on the opening lap forced him off the track. After an impressive qualifying that landed his Yamaha fourth on the grid, Rins was running fifth before Marquez’s misjudged braking at Turn 10 caused a collision, dropping Rins to the back of the pack.
Details of the Incident Between Rins and Marquez
During the sprint race, Marquez outbraked himself entering Turn 10 and collided with Rins’ Yamaha from the side, resulting in Rins being pushed off track and losing several positions. Marquez was handed a long lap penalty for the crash and quickly expressed regret for the incident.
I already said sorry to Alex. I couldn’t control in that first hard brake point. I started to slide the rear, plus the slipstream of the riders in front,
Marquez stated.
Both of us were a bit wide, but I was inside and couldn’t stop. I touched him, he went in the runoff area, and when you do that [to another rider], you need to receive a penalty.
Marquez added.
Despite Marquez’s apology, Rins was visibly frustrated by the incident.
I was so angry with Marc because he destroyed my race,
he admitted. However, after reviewing footage, Rins conceded there were circumstances beyond Marquez’s control.
One time, it can happen to me. One time, it can happen to him. This is racing.
Rins Reflects on His Qualifying Performance at Mandalika
While the sprint ended poorly, Rins remained pleased with his qualifying ride, which marked a notable improvement for the Yamaha rider. He highlighted the progress made since Motegi in controlling the bike’s speed entering corners and maintaining the ideal racing line, which proved essential at Mandalika.
Rins noted that strong technique was needed for sectors one and three of the circuit, in particular around corners one and ten, where precise braking and cornering are key.
So we were able to put everything in place, and I’m quite happy because we did a really great lap time,
he said with satisfaction.
Rins credited developments in his bike’s handling for helping him conquer demanding track sections and praised the fast characteristics of sectors two and four, which suited his riding style well.
Outlook for the Upcoming Sunday Race
Looking ahead to the main event, Rins remained cautiously optimistic but aware of challenges to come, especially concerning tire management. He explained that warming the medium rear tire would be tougher on race day, likely causing him to lose positions in the early laps while the tire reaches optimal temperature.
We need to find a way to overtake and to be there,
Rins said, emphasizing the importance of strategy and race pace after the initial phase.
He expressed confidence in the progress made by the team and the bike setup, which should help maintain a strong pace after the opening laps.
Other Notable Race Developments
Rins’ teammate, Fabio Quartararo, crashed out on the final lap after running in twelfth place, a setback for the leading Yamaha contender. Meanwhile, Miguel Oliveira on a Pramac Ducati was the highest finishing Yamaha-affiliated rider, securing ninth place.
Rins ultimately finished twelfth after a penalty was applied post-race to Luca Marini, who had affected the running order during the sprint.
