Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) had two crashes on Friday – rider ok – but bounced back on Saturday to make history in signature style. Putting in the first 1:59 lap of Silverstone, the reigning Champion was the only man to break that two minute barrier – but was less than a tenth clear of Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP).
Feeling some ill affects from Friday’s misadventures and with some bad weather early on, Marquez didn’t expect the laptime to be possible, but did have a better feeling on the bike than on Friday – a good omen for the rider from Cervera to get in the fight for the win on Sunday.
Marc Marquez, P1: “First of all, when I woke up this morning my body was a bit lazy after the crashes yesterday. Yesterday I was able to be fast but was struggling with feeling, which was much better today. I didn’t expect to do a 59 but when I put in the soft rear I felt more grip and I was pushing to the maximum. For tomorrow the rhythm isn’t so bad and we’ll try to use Warm Up to make another step – but it will be difficult with a lot of riders with good pace! But the important thing is that we’re there. I think it will be a close race because the top four riders in the Championship have a good rhythm, plus Cal who is really fast, and it will be a good race. It will be important to check the temperature and choose the right rear tyre.”