Marc Marquez revealed that his physical condition deteriorated during the recent Sepang MotoGP test in Malaysia, casting doubt on his preparation for the upcoming season. The multiple-time world champion has been battling shoulder injuries that have severely impacted his training and performance following a serious crash last October in Indonesia.
This testing session was significant as it marked Marquez’s first time back on a MotoGP bike since the collision with Marco Bezzecchi, which left him with substantial shoulder damage. After months of recovery and limited riding primarily at the Aspar Circuit starting in January, the Spanish rider faced uncertainty about whether he could return to his previous competitive form.
Testing Approach and Moments of Encouragement Amid Physical Challenges
At Sepang, Marquez adopted a cautious riding strategy, limiting his stints on the bike in a manner similar to how he managed shoulder surgeries during his Honda years. Despite the hurdles, he found some reasons to remain hopeful based on the data and sensations gathered throughout the test sessions.
Step-by-step we try a few things and we go out with clever information,
Marquez said, looking forward to the next test in Thailand.
But it looks like everything is in a good way. Of course, I need to improve on my side, but step-by-step.
The test’s final day included a Sprint simulation in which Marquez reported feeling more comfort and rhythm, an important milestone in his gradual return to form.
Today we did a Sprint simulation and I put a good rhythm there, just to check everything,
he noted.
The way that I finished, I like it, I feel comfortable on those last laps and that was the most important.
Physical Decline Casts a Shadow Over Optimism
Despite those positive moments, Marquez admitted that his physical state worsened as the test progressed. He recalled that his best feeling was on the first afternoon, but the sensation steadily declined thereafter. The demanding nature of the sessions left him fatigued, though he remained hopeful about recuperation before the next test event.
The best feeling was on day one afternoon,
Marquez confessed.
Then, step-by-step, I was getting worse and worse.
Upcoming Thai Test Carries Crucial Importance for Marquez’s Season
With the next preseason test scheduled in Buriram, Thailand, less than two weeks away, Marquez is aware that the stakes are extremely high. This session will be a final tune-up before the Thai Grand Prix, which takes place just days after the test, making it vital for his race readiness.
Thai test will be important, more important than this one [Sepang], maybe, because there in just four days we will have the race after the test,
he emphasized.
Despite the challenges and setbacks, Marquez remains determined to fight back, acknowledging the need for improvement to match the pace of his competitors.
I’m happy and these three days [at Sepang] were very useful for myself. We need to improve because there are two or three riders that are faster than us.
Global Fans Await Marquez’s Return Amid Physical and Competitive Pressures
Marc Marquez’s physical struggles following his Indonesia crash have raised questions about his future performance in MotoGP. His deteriorating condition during the Sepang test highlights the difficulties he faces in regaining full competitiveness against faster riders on the grid, including figures such as Jorge Lorenzo, Diogo Moreira, and Jack Miller who have made notable impressions in recent tests.
The upcoming test in Thailand represents a critical moment for the Spanish star to demonstrate recovery and readiness, with global attention focused on whether the renowned racing legend can overcome these obstacles and reestablish himself among the sport’s elite.
