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Gresini Racing rider Álex Márquez has voiced firm support for the creation of an independent MotoGP riders' association, declaring that competitors across the premier-class paddock are now more united than ever in their desire to defend mutual interests. Speaking to Manuel Pecino prior to track running at the Malaysian Grand Prix, the Spanish racer discussed the mounting momentum behind collective representation alongside his competitive prospects at the Sepang International Circuit, widely regarded as one of the most physically and technically demanding stops on the championship calendar.
Previous attempts and renewed unity
The push to formally organise grand prix motorcycle racers is not unprecedented, though previous attempts failed to gain traction. Márquez revealed that riders first sought to introduce a collective representation initiative during the Grand Prix of India several years ago, subsequently revisiting the matter two months later. However, those initial efforts faltered because an uncomfortable atmosphere lingered amongst participants. In contrast, Márquez highlighted that recent paddock developments have dramatically shifted perspectives, fostering shared awareness regarding the necessity of presenting a unified front. While acknowledging that the current dynamic may not entirely mirror the solidarity observed in 2022, he maintained that the grid is travelling in the same direction, with peers broadly recognising the urgent requirement for formal organisation.
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Building for future generations
Taking an unvarnished view of his individual circumstances, the Spaniard conceded that a newly established union might offer him little personal advantage before it fully materialises. At 30 years of age, Márquez estimated that roughly four seasons remain in his MotoGP career, meaning younger prospects entering the championship will stand to gain far more from structural advocacy over their sporting journeys. When asked about his personal influence over key regulatory decisions, he acknowledged candidly that "at this moment I have no power" within the sport's administrative framework. Furthermore, Márquez declined to discuss specific private dialogues or potential guarantees regarding the upcoming week, deliberately leaving unanswered questions as anticipation continues to swirl throughout the paddock.
Tempering expectations after past lessons
Away from paddock politics, Márquez enters the Sepang round with quiet confidence while intentionally tempering expectations compared to his previous visit. Twelve months earlier, blistering pace during pre-season testing prompted heightened optimism, only for a sharp reduction in track grip and altered machine behaviour to derail his comfort during the grand prix proper. Despite those obstacles, he demonstrated versatility by securing victory in the Saturday sprint race, yet the challenging overall outing taught him to manage pressure more realistically. Knowing he can be rapid at Sepang provides valuable serenity, with Márquez stressing that repeating that competitiveness depends entirely on disciplined personal execution and absolute focus.
Tackling Sepang's low-grip asphalt
Sepang presents distinct mechanical hurdles due to its notoriously low levels of surface grip, conditions that Márquez believes can play to his natural strengths. Contending with the slippery Malaysian asphalt obliges riders to preserve high cornering speed through smooth and fluid throttle inputs rather than aggressive braking. Márquez explained that his gentle riding style is well suited to maintaining momentum under such delicate circumstances, giving him an extra boost as he strives to translate preliminary optimism into solid weekend results and unlock his machine's complete potential.
Sources: Álex Márquez alza la voz en MotoGP: «Todos se están dando cuenta de que necesitamos estar unidos».
