Marc Marquez has called on MotoGP officials to improve their precision when issuing penalties, highlighting confusion over a penalty he received during the recent Thai MotoGP Sprint at Buriram. The Spanish rider was penalized with a one-position drop on the final lap after a late move on Pedro Acosta at the penultimate corner caused minor contact, forcing Acosta off the track.
Marquez acknowledged there was slight contact but expressed frustration over when the penalty was communicated, as it was only displayed as he approached the final corner of the 13-lap race.
Details of the Incident and Marquez’s Response
Speaking afterward, the factory Ducati rider described the contact as minimal, stating that his bike was already half a bike length ahead when the collision occurred. Despite accepting the stewards’ decision, Marquez criticized the timing of the penalty message.
“If they want to have this system, if they want to be more strict, they need to send the penalty already at the exit of turn three. Don’t wait until the last corner.” ?Marc Marquez, Factory Ducati Rider
He emphasized the need for quicker communication from officials, pointing out that the delay made it difficult for riders to adjust or respond effectively.
“If see already that it’s a clear penalty, send straight away in 20 seconds, but okay. I don’t know why they send only in the last corner.” ?Marc Marquez, Factory Ducati Rider
Implications for Future Races
Marquez’s penalty did not prevent him from securing second place for the upcoming Thai Grand Prix, where he will start behind Marco Bezzecchi, who had crashed earlier in the Sprint while leading. The controversy raised by Marquez underscores the ongoing tensions around race officiating and the need for prompt, transparent decisions to maintain fairness and competitiveness in MotoGP.
As officials review their penalty protocols, the emphasis on improved timing and clarity could impact how future races are managed, reducing uncertainties for riders like Marquez and others competing at the highest level.
