8 time world champion Marc Marquez reigned fastest in the qualifying session for the Grand Prix of Japan at the Twin Ring Motegi. It was the Spaniard’s first pole since the 2019 Japanese Grand Prix.
It was a rainy weekend so far at Motegi as the typhoon loomed large. Final practice was cancelled yesterday. While conditions seemed to improve, rain struck again as qualifying got delayed due to standing water.
The Pramac Ducatis of Johann Zarco and Jorge Martin were the two bikes to make it through to Q2.
Marquez was particularly setting the pace after Zarco’s early charge in Q2. But Marquez was determined as he mastered the conditions to claim pole with a lap time of 1:55.232. Brad Binder was looking good in the factory KTM as he took third place after Zarco in second to complete the front row.
Aleix Espargaro was the best of the title contenders in the session in 6th place on the second row where he will be joined by his teammate Maverick Vinales and Jorge Martin.
Not a enjoyable outing for the other two championship contenders as Ducati’s Pecco Bagnaia finished the session in 12th place with championship leader Fabio Quartararo in 9th place. Aragon race winner Enea Bastianini fell out in Q1 as he only managed 15th place.
After a soaking two days so far, dry weather is expected tomorrow at Motegi. Marquez will look to return to the scene in style after a horrible weekend at Aragon.
Image credit: Autosport.com
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