Marc Marquez, a prominent figure in MotoGP, has expressed his disapproval of the growing aerodynamics trend in the sport. During the recent shakedown at Sepang International Circuit, various teams showcased new aero solutions, sparking Marquez’s vocal criticism.
The inception of aero enhancements in MotoGP traces back to 2015 when Ducati introduced winglets on its Desmosedici. Since then, it has evolved into a competitive race to create the fastest bike with sleek aerodynamics.
In the latest developments at Sepang, Aprilia introduced a distinctive rear wing, Honda revamped its design with a new version of its ‘stegosaurus,’ Ducati experimented with fresh fairings, and even KTM and Yamaha joined the aero frenzy to stay competitive.
Marquez, who recently transitioned from Honda to Gresini, openly expressed his disdain for the aero-focused direction MotoGP is taking, likening it to Formula 1. He believes that the sport is deviating from its essence by prioritizing aerodynamics.
“When I see some photos from the shakedown and some new aerodynamics, it looks like Formula 1,” Marquez remarked. “For me, I hate that way, but it’s the way that they are going, and the rules allow them, so they will go there. But when I see that every time we are going more and more on the aerodynamics, personally speaking I don’t like [it]. But you need to adapt.”
Marquez is concerned that the emphasis on aerodynamics is impacting the quality of racing, a domain where MotoGP traditionally excelled. He suggests that manufacturers should redirect their resources towards other aspects such as chassis and engine development, moving away from the aero obsession.
“It’s a compromise, but when you are talking aerodynamics, it will be more difficult to follow the bikes and to overtake,” Marquez explained. “This is what has happened to Formula 1. In MotoGP, we had the good thing that we were able to fight in a big group, but now if you are going more and more on aerodynamics… So, I will prefer to develop on the chassis area, on tires and engines, than aerodynamics, but it will affect the show that is the main race. For the show, it doesn’t matter if you are three tenths faster or three tenths slower. People want to see overtakes.”
Marquez advocates for a shift in focus, urging manufacturers to prioritize areas that enhance the overall racing experience and maintain MotoGP’s reputation for thrilling and closely contested competitions.
