Track Report by Alberto Puig [Repsol Honda Team - Team Manager]

What is the status of Marc Marquez after his crash?

The rider was diagnosed with a displaced intraarticular fracture of the base of the first metacarpal of the thumb of the right hand after further checks in Spain. He underwent surgery immediately at the Ruber Internacional Hospital in Madrid with Dr. Ignacio Roger de Oña leading a team consisting of Dr. Samuel Antuña and Dr. Andrea Garcia Villanueva. Everyone involved has confirmed that the surgery went well.

About the crash, it is clear that Marc’s intention was not to overtake at that point. He had some locking with the front while using the hard front tyre, probably the tyre was not yet fully up to temperature. Then he released the brake, and he went on and into Oliveira. We as the Repsol Honda Team and HRC feel sorry for those impacted by this incident and we want to apologise to RNF, Aprilia and Miguel because it was not the intention to cause this incident.

We accept the penalty that was given to us and look forward to having Marc back with us once he is recovered.

Mir’s debut weekend how do you assess it?

Having to do a long lap is a hindrance even before you start the race. Joan did it and he worked hard to recover the positions he lost. It seemed like the bike was performing better before the long lap but after it took some time to find the rhythm again. It was very important to finish the race for him, it’s something that allows him and the team to understand more about the bike. Now he can continue with his progress in Argentina.

Positives from the weekend, Marc had a very strong Saturday...

Yes, Saturday was very strong and Marc brought some great feelings and emotions to the team but Sunday was not a good day. There is still work to do on the bike and it is very early in a very long championship.

How is the new schedule with the Sprint race?

Saturday is a very busy day for the riders. From Friday, they really have to be focused to take the most out of every single session. We are still at the beginning of this new journey and there are some points to understand. But finally, we as a team and as a company are here to race. That’s our focus and our target.