Marc Márquez once again showcased his class during Saturday’s MotoGP Qatar Grand Prix sprint race. The Spaniard dominated the field, claiming an authoritative victory ahead of his brother Alex and the surprising Franco Morbidelli. A show of force that reinforces his status as the overwhelming favorite for the 2025 world championship.
The Unstoppable Márquez Brothers
From the start, Marc Márquez took command of the race, immediately pulling away from his pursuers. His brother Alex, determined not to be left behind, tried everything to catch up, even attacking him in the second lap. But nothing worked, as the six-time world champion responded immediately to maintain his position.
Morbidelli, the Pleasant Surprise
Behind the two brothers, a fierce battle raged for the third step of the podium. Franco Morbidelli ultimately created a sensation by securing his first podium of the season. The Italian, who hadn’t particularly shined since joining VR46 Ducati, managed to keep pace with the blistering rhythm set by the Márquez brothers. This result delighted his boss Valentino Rossi, who was present at the Qatar circuit.
Quartararo, So Close to the Podium
After an impressive qualifying that allowed him to start from the front row, Fabio Quartararo had high ambitions for this sprint race. The Frenchman came very close to achieving his podium hopes. Running fourth with a few laps to go, he put enormous pressure on Morbidelli, making multiple overtaking attempts. Unfortunately for him, a small error in the final corners proved costly. “I absolutely wanted to overtake Franco, I pushed a bit too hard and lost the front end,” he told Canal+. This mistake benefited Fermín Aldeguer, who has been impressive in his first season in the premier class, as he snatched 4th place from Quartararo.
Unlucky Zarco, Disappointing Bagnaia
The other French rider, Johann Zarco, didn’t experience the same success. After managing to climb to 6th position early in the race, the Pramac rider was betrayed by his machinery. Having suffered from vibration problems since Friday, he had to retire, heartbroken. His teammate Francesco Bagnaia once again disappointed. Starting only 11th on the grid after a crash in qualifying, the Italian did manage to climb to 7th place but then lost ground, finishing 12th. A result well below expectations for someone who dreamed of competing for the world title this year.
And Now, On to the Grand Prix
A Márquez-Quartararo Duel in Prospect?
After this insightful sprint race, all eyes are now on Sunday’s Grand Prix. Marc Márquez, untouchable since the start of the season, will once again start from pole position. Will he be able to repeat today’s performance? Nothing is certain, as Fabio Quartararo is determined to get his revenge. The Frenchman, who will also start from the front row, is eager to make up for his 5th place finish in the sprint. “Tomorrow, I’m going to give everything to secure the podium that eluded me today. I know I’m capable of it,” he promised. We’ll find out Sunday at 7 PM on the Losail circuit!
