‘Marquez is the reference in MotoGP’, will help ‘raise our level’ - Espargaro

MotoGP returns to Europe for round three of the 2021 season, which also sees the returning Marc Marquez join new team-mate Pol Espargaro at Repsol Honda. 

Following a difficult Qatar double header for Honda across their four riders, Portimao is next up for the Japanese manufacturer. 

It will be Espargaro’s first experience on the Honda at a circuit besides Qatar, as he aims to ‘show the’ true ‘potential’ of the RC213V. 

The Spaniard goes into the Portuguese Grand Prix with good memories having finished fourth in last year’s season finale. 

"We left Qatar with good information but without the results we were looking for. Portugal gives me a chance to start to understand the Honda more because it will be the first time not riding it in Losail," said Espargaro. 

"It’s a fun and very physical circuit to ride so I am excited to try the RC213V in Portugal. 

"We need to continue to improve our performance and show the potential of the Honda."

One of the big storylines heading into this weekend, is the return of Espargaro’s team-mate Marquez, who makes his comeback nine months after breaking his right humerus. 

Speaking about having Marquez back, the former KTM rider added: "Of course I am also very excited to have Marc [Marquez] back in the box, he is the reference in MotoGP and working with him will help us to raise our level."

Espargaro currently sits tenth in the championship standings on 11 points and the top Honda rider.