Repsol rider uses strong pace to take another home podium. Alex Marquez places just off the podium after challenging for most of the way.
In a reflection of what was seen in qualifying yesterday, the Moto3 Catalan Grand Prix was a tight race right through to the last lap, in which the superiority of Luis Salom and Alex Rins would be apparent once again. They finished first and second, respectively, on a podium completed by Maverick Viñales –who was almost caught by Alex Marquez before the end, as the latter finally finished fourth.
When the red lights went out, a group of seven riders formed at the front, with Rins heading the pack and Marquez in third, accompanied by Salom, Viñales, Vazquez, Oliveira and Miller. After various changes of the lead, the fight was narrowed down to five by the midway point and four for the final third. A switch of pace from Salom with six laps to go stretched things out, preventing any late overtakes.
Salom crossed the line first, regaining the lead of the World Championship with 127 points, whilst Rins placed second and keeps third in the overall standings with 101. Alex Marquez was only some 4 seconds behind at the chequered flag and his fourth place maintains fifth in the title chase with 48 points.
Repsol President Antonio Brufau was one of the first to congratulate Rins and Marquez on their great race today.
Alex Rins >> Audio
2nd at 0.211 sec.
“It was a very difficult race. At first there were many riders in the leading group and it was a bit dangerous with so much overtaking. Although this morning we had a good pace, I did not want to risk more than was necessary during the race. At first I tried to push, and that led to premature tyre wear. But we can be happy with this second place at home. I want to thank the team, my family and all the fans who have come to support me this weekend.”
Alex Marquez >> Audio
4th at 3.993 sec.
“It went pretty well today. From the beginning I felt comfortable with the bike and was riding with the lead group. Eventually we caught Salom, who had an ace in his hand, and he could push while we lacked a bit of pace on worn tiyres. We knew that at the end of the race we would suffer a bit with the tyres, but I’m happy. We have to be satisfied, having gained experience at this race and continuing on this path that I think is the correct one. If we continue like this, then we can fight with the fastest riders. Now we go to Holland, where it is sure to be difficult at a new track for me. So we have to continue like always and I’m sure it will be fine.”
