Sibling rivalry reemerges in France as Marc Marquez outpaces brother Alex in MotoGP dash.
Rewritten Article:
MotoGP's Le Mans race in 2025 saw a thrilling twist as series leader Marc Marquez expanded his lead to consolidate his position at the top of the world championship standings. The six-time world champ claimed his sixth victory in six sprint races, edging out younger sibling Alex Marquez who came in second, and Rookie Fermin Aldeguer in third.
Marquez, radiating triumph, thanked Tour de France cycling legend Mark Cavendish for waving the chequered flag, stating, "I was riding well, let's see if we can finish the job tomorrow (in the main race) - 'merci beaucoup'."
Home favorite Fabio Quartararo started from pole position, having lower the lap record in qualifying. However, the Yamaha rider struggled to keep pace, ultimately finishing in fourth.
Quartararo initially held off both Marquez brothers at the start, igniting a cheer from the expectant home fans. But Marc Marquez was relentless, narrowing the gap, and Alex Marquez made a strategic move to pass Quartararo on lap eight, a repeat of their Saturday dash since the start of the season.
Alex Marquez was ecstatic about his second-place finish, stating, "Really happy to be second, another P2!" Rookie Fermin Aldeguer marked his first sprint podium in third, celebrating his achievement despite a minor incident with Marc Marquez during the cool-down lap.
Francesco Bagnaia's factory Ducati skidded early in lap two while Marc Marquez attempted to keep up with Quartararo. approaching midway, Marc Marquez surged ahead, with Quartararo momentarily trapped in a Marquez sandwich as Alex raced in third.
With Marquez bagging 151 points in the riders' standings, and Alex on 149, the stage is set for an intriguing main race showdown this Sunday. It's clear that the Marquez brothers are the ones to watch in this thrilling 2025 MotoGP season[2][4].
© 2025 AFP
[2]: https://www.motogp.com/en/news/2025/05/17/2025-marquez-grabs-lead-after-chaotic-le-mans-sprint[4]: https://www.Speedweek.com/motogp/news/marquez-siegt-mehrere-hier-von-siblings-zurueck.2960720.html
France, known for its cycling sports, played a significant role in the MotoGP's Le Mans race in 2025. Tour de France cycling legend Mark Cavendish was present to wave the chequered flag during the sprint race, akin to a nod towards France's rich cycling history.
