MotoGP: Marquez’s COTA Reign Continues

Marc Marquez (#93 Repsol Honda Team) dominated the America MotoGP for his sixth COTA victory in a row. Marquez was given a three-place grid penalty for slow riding on the racing line and disturbing another rider in the qualifying heat. As a result Marquez lost his sixth pole position at the Circuit of the Americas and started from fourth on the grid.

Commenting on the penalty, Marquez told reporters “I felt an extra pressure, more motivation this week.”  “When it’s like that, I feel more comfortable. That gives me an extra push, a change of direction you need.”  “I like to speak on the track. I tried to open up a big gap today and make the others chase.”

Maverick Vinales (#25 Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) finished second behind Marquez.  Vinales earned a first row position after a strong qualification time, but took the pole position with the Marquez penalty.  Remarking on Marquez’s victory, Vinales said “it’s a combination of him and the bike.  In the corners, he pulls away.

Andrea Iannone (#29 Team Suzuki Ecstar) took third in the qualification and finished third in the race.   “For a moment I think I can overtake Marc, then told myself, ‘You are stupid,’” Iannone said.  “He overtakes me because he’s faster. Simple. On this track, he’s really strong.” 

MotoG Race Results
1 - Marc Márquez (SPA) HONDA 41’52.002
2 - Maverick Viñales (SPA) YAMAHA + 3.560
3 - Andrea Iannone (ITA) SUZUKI + 6.704