Alex Marquez chooses not to ride on treacherous final day

The next time MotoGP bikes will be on track at the Losail International Circuit will be for round one of the 2021 season as testing in Qatar came to a finish today. 

Strong winds during the final day caused a lot of sand to be blown onto the track surface, making conditions extremely difficult and risky for any rider planning to go out. 

Like most of the field, Alex Marquez chose not to take part, and with the Spanish rider nursing a fractured foot, it ultimately wasn't worth the risk. 

"We took the decision last night not to ride on this last day of the test, so that we were in better shape for the race weekend in two weeks’ time," said Marquez. 

"Also, the weather at the track wasn’t great this evening. I still went to the track to have a good look at lots of videos and data information in order to improve even further."

Marquez will have two weeks to recover from the injury, while his brother Marc Marquez is also getting closer to a return for Repsol Honda after being cleared to 'Intensify' his 'recovery'. 

Ahead of what will be two race weekends scheduled in Doha to begin the season, Marquez said. "I’d like to say a big thank you to the LCR Honda CASTROL Team for this first test. I feel so good with the bike and team and I am ready to start the season. 

"I am looking forward to being here again with the team in Qatar, and hope I can be at one hundred percent after my injury to my right foot."