Marc Marquez Wins Japan GP, Closes in on Martin

Marc Marquez won the Japanese Grand Prix at Motegi to reduce Jorge Martin’s MotoGP championship lead to just two points with six rounds remaining. The Ducati rider completed a perfect weekend after also winning Saturday’s sprint.

Martin started the race from pole and initially held off Marquez, but the reigning champion overtook his fellow Spaniard on lap 11 and went on to secure the victory. Martin finished second, while Aprilia teammate Marco Bezzecchi completed the podium.

Marquez Takes Control at Motegi

Martin led from the start, with Marquez initially settling behind his title rival. The Ducati rider kept his time before making his move on the inside on lap 11.

Marquez then opened a gap and maintained control through the closing stages. He now has 331 points in the championship, while Martin’s second-place finish leaves him with a two-point advantage.

Bezzecchi Keeps Title Hopes Alive

Bezzecchi finished third after defending his position against a late challenge from Tech3 rider Enea Bastianini. The result moves him to 284 points, keeping him within reach of the championship leaders with six rounds remaining.

Japanese GP result

1. Marc Marquez
2. Jorge Martin
3. Marco Bezzecchi
4. Enea Bastianini

Gresini rider Alex Marquez had a difficult weekend, crashing out of Sunday’s race after serving a double long-lap penalty for his involvement in a three-rider collision during Saturday’s sprint.

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Final Take

Marquez’s victory brings him to within two points of Martin in the championship standings. With six rounds remaining, the result sets up a closely contested final phase of the 2026 MotoGP season.