Marquez win ‘very important for us, 450 podiums is an amazing number’ - Puig

In what was arguably his best ride since returning from injury, Marc Marquez’ seventh COTA MotoGP win also brought up a stunning 450th premier class podium for Repsol Honda. 

Marquez romped to victory after leading every lap, similar to his impressive win at Sachsenring earlier this season. 

Although Marquez is still some way off full fitness, the eight-time world champion is in a rich vein of form after finishing the last three races inside the top four.

So while victory in Austin was a result that Marquez and Honda thought was possible given his and the bike’s record in America, ‘it comes with an extra special feeling’ given the tough season he’s endured, according to Team Manager Alberto Puig.

Puig said: "We had a very good test in Misano before arriving here in Texas and therefore the whole team and both riders arrived here with extra motivation. 

"The circuit has traditionally been a Honda track, we have won many times here since 2013 – only missing the victory once when Marc fell while leading. 

"This is why we were expecting a great result on Sunday, even if the situation this year has not always been easy. 

"Finally, the result has been amazing, and it comes with an extra special feeling because Marc could win here again and get his second win in what has been a very difficult season for him."

Marquez’s win on Sunday also clinched yet another milestone for MotoGP’s most successful manufacturer. 

Repsol Honda, who already have the most victories in MotoGP, clinched their 450th premier class podium, a number that riders such as Marquez, Valentino Rossi, Casey Stoner, Mick Doohan and Dani Pedrosa just to name a few, have all contributed too. 

Speaking about the achievement, Puig added: "It’s an amazing number and highlights the great history that Repsol and HRC have made together. 

"It’s especially nice to achieve something like 450 podiums with such a great victory as we had at COTA. It’s a very important win for us and is another step forward for the next race."