Marquez Wins Japanese Grand Prix To Cut Martin’s MotoGP Lead

Reigning champion Marc Marquez took maximum points at the Japanese Grand Prix, winning both Saturday’s sprint and Sunday’s feature race to trim Jorge Martin’s MotoGP championship lead to just two points.

Martin, the 2024 title winner, started Sunday’s race from pole position at Motegi Circuit and finished second. His Aprilia teammate Marco Bezzecchi completed the podium in third.

Ducati rider Marquez, 33, had to wait for his opportunity after Martin kept the advantage at the start. The seven-time champion made his move on lap 11, slipping past his rival on the inside.

Marquez, who now has 331 points with six rounds remaining, said the race was difficult while he was running behind Martin, but he knew his pace was strong enough once he took the lead. He added that Martin tried to respond, but he was able to raise his speed slightly and manage the final two laps more comfortably.

Bezzecchi, 27, moved to 284 points and kept his slim title hopes alive by holding off a late push from Tech3’s Enea Bastianini to secure third.

Gresini’s Alex Marquez endured a disappointing race, crashing out after serving a double long-lap penalty for his involvement in a three-rider collision during Saturday’s sprint.