Reigning MotoGP champion Marc Marquez delivered a dominant performance at the Japanese Grand Prix, claiming victory in both Saturday's sprint and Sunday's main race. This double triumph has significantly tightened the championship battle, cutting fellow Spaniard Jorge Martin's lead to a mere two points.
Martin, the 2024 title winner, started Sunday's race at Motegi Circuit from pole position but ultimately finished second. His Aprilla team-mate Marco Bezzecchi secured third place on the podium.
Ducati rider Marquez, 33, made his move on the 11th lap, overtaking Martin on the inside. Marquez commented that the race was challenging while behind Martin, but he was confident in his pace once in the lead. He added that he increased his pace when Martin attempted to attack, allowing him to relax for the final two laps.
Italian Bezzecchi, 27, now has 284 points, keeping his title aspirations alive. He fended off a late challenge from Tech3's Enea Bastianini to maintain his podium position. Meanwhile, Gresini's Alex Marquez crashed out of the race after receiving a double long lap penalty for his involvement in a three-rider collision during Saturday's sprint.