The MotoGP championship battle remains razor‑thin after the Mandalika race, with Jorge Martin retaining a 2‑point lead over Marc Marquez, according to RiderTua.com. Martin, the Aprilia rider, finished fourth in the sprint race and third in the main event, while Marquez, riding for Ducati, secured sixth place in the grand prix. The gap between the two remains at 2 points, with five rounds remaining in the 2026 season. Martin holds 355 points, while Marquez has 353, according to RiderTua.com.
Marquez’s performance at the 4.3-kilometer Mandalika circuit, a coastal track known for its challenges, was described by his brother Alex Marquez as a ‘safe passage.’ Alex, a Gresini Ducati rider, noted that while Marquez avoided major setbacks, the circuit remained ‘difficult for him and Ducati.’ Despite this, the 33-year-old Spaniard maintained his position in the standings. “He successfully passed the circuit, and I wouldn’t call it a victory, but he managed to get through safely,” Alex said. “The results were balanced, with both riders averaging 22 points each.”
Key to the championship race are the upcoming circuits where Aprilia’s RS‑GP bike is expected to perform strongly, according to Alex Marquez. He highlighted Australia, Qatar, and Portugal as critical venues, where “Aprilia’s competitiveness could tip the balance.” The Portimao circuit, however, remains a hurdle for Marquez, who has yet to win there, while tracks like Phillip Island and Sepang have historically favored him. “Marquez hasn’t won at Portimao, but he’s had success at Phillip Island, Sepang, Lusail, and Valencia,” Alex added. The upcoming races in Australia, Qatar, and Portugal present challenges for Marc Marquez.
:quality(80)/https://cdn-dam.kompas.id/images/2026/10/11/e206850514e88563c00b26911140f9f8-MOTO_PRIX_INA_MOTOGP_141848338.jpg "Photo: Kompas.id")
Team orders—where teams direct riders to support top contenders—have resurfaced as a topic of discussion. Aprilia, with Martin and Marco Bezzecchi in the top three, is considering such strategies, though the team has delayed decisions until later in the season. Alex Marquez suggested Ducati may follow suit, stating, “It’s only a matter of time before they do, but now is not the moment.” Bezzecchi, currently 46 points behind Martin, has struggled to match his teammate’s pace, according to RiderTua.com. “Aprilia has a clear plan to secure the title, and they’ve already spoken to all their riders,” Alex said.
Martin’s recent health struggles add another layer to the championship race. reported that the Spanish rider required medical attention for a gastrointestinal infection during his stay in Indonesia. Aprilia’s medical team is monitoring his condition closely ahead of the Australian Grand Prix. Martin, who chose to stay in Indonesia with his partner instead of returning home, shared an Instagram story showing himself receiving intravenous treatment, according to Harian Disway.
The rivalry between Martin and Marquez has historical context. “Marc is less forgiving of mistakes,” Martin said, citing the nine-time champion’s ability to capitalize on small errors. Martin’s 2024 title win came despite securing only three race victories compared to Francesco Bagnaia’s 11, thanks to his consistency.
Martin’s recent performance at Mandalika highlighted his resilience. Though he struggled with front tire temperature during practice, he recovered in the main race, finishing third after starting sixth.
The next major test comes at the Australian Grand Prix.
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