Marc Marquez admits rookie Fermin Aldeguer was his biggest concern en route to Austrian MotoGP victory due to the Gresini rider’s tyre data.
The eight-time World Champion scored a ninth double of 2025 to extend his championship advantage to 142 points following his first-ever triumph around the Red Bull Ring circuit.
However, Sunday’s race wasn’t as easy as Marquez’s previous Grand Prix victories as he spent the majority of the race behind polesitter Marco Bezzecchi before making his move on Lap 20.
The Spaniard admitted that too much strain on his rear tyre meant he was unable to close the gap to Bezzecchi, and allowed the fast-charging Fermin Aldeguer to catch the pair in the late stages.
“When I was riding behind Marco, I was putting too much strain on the rear tyre,” said Marquez to Speedweek.
“I couldn’t brake as I wanted, and therefore needed more tire coming out of the corners. So I eased off a bit halfway through the race, took a deep breath, and attacked again in the final laps.
“Then, suddenly Aldeguer came out of nowhere with incredible pace, putting on a lot of pressure. I gained a bit of ground in the last three laps and was able to maintain the gap.”
Marquez also revealed Ducati’s data had shown Aldeguer was the best at managing the rear tyre, and admitted he “started to worry” when he saw the rookie closing the gap behind.
“After I overtook Marco, I checked him. When I saw that the group behind us was two or three seconds behind, I forgot to check what was happening.
“Then I suddenly saw +1 on my pit board and didn’t even know who it was.
“Then I realised it was Aldeguer and started to worry. We had analysed all the Ducati riders on Saturday, and he was the one who was the most careful with the rear tyre.”
‘There will be a weekend when I won’t be the fastest’ – Marc Marquez on MotoGP dominance
Despite his run of victories, Marquez also suggested there will be races where he will not be the fastest rider on track.
The eight-time World Champion suggested the upcoming Balaton Park circuit will be a “good track” for his riding style, but admitted he is staying “realistic” for the next few rounds.
“I’ve understood and accepted that there will come a Saturday or Sunday when I won’t be the fastest,” Marquez conceded.
“People expect me to always win – but that’s MotoGP, and it doesn’t work that way.
“We have to stay realistic and will face greater difficulties in some races.
“For now, we’re enjoying the moment; I also believe that Balaton will be a good track for me.”
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