Marquez: Rossi not a main title opponent in the last years, MotoGP continues

Marc Marquez says MotoGP will do just fine without former rival Valentino Rossi, as this weekend's Qatar MotoGP will signify the beginning of the first premier class season without the nine-time world champion since 2001. 

Marquez, who could tie Rossi for nine world championship wins should he take home the 2022 title -  would also mean both riders are tied on seven apiece MotoGP - was blunt in his response to being asked about a first season without the Italian. 

Marquez added: "I mean he was not one of the main opponents for the title. In the last years I was looking for the fastest guys. 

"The fastest guys were Pecco [Bagnaia], Quartararo and Joan [Mir] in 2020. Of course MotoGP loses an icon, but MotoGP continues. I think it will be a nice season."  

While the Repsol Honda rider is unsure whether a victory challenge will come in Qatar on Sunday, a circuit he’s won just once at since joining MotoGP, the bigger picture for 2022 includes fighting for the world title. 

It's a goal that has been made clear on two fronts - the first being his return to full fitness, while the second is due to Honda bringing a much improved RC213V to the fore based off pre-season testing results.  

"Of course for 2022 I want to fight for the title. For the Qatar GP maybe I’m not ready, but during the weekend we will see where we are," said Marquez. 

"Honda took a big step with the bike and honestly speaking, I feel like I changed brands because it’s a completely different bike. 

"Since I arrived in Honda there have always been improvements but the character of the bike and the way to ride was very similar. 

"Now it’s a big change. In Malaysia I struggled a bit but in one lap I felt the potential and the lap time was coming. 

"Then in Mandalika I already tried to bring the bike to my riding style. During the first races we will find small things, but the base is nice."