The MotoGP paddock is abuzz with speculations and rumors, and one of the most discussed topics is the future of riders, especially with the recent performances and decisions made by teams and riders. Álex Rins, a prominent figure in the MotoGP circuit, recently shed light on his injury and the ongoing rumors about Marc Márquez’s future with Honda.
Álex Rins on His Injury
Rins has been sidelined from the action due to a severe injury he sustained in Mugello, where he broke the tibia and fibula of his right leg. This unfortunate incident disrupted his adaptation to the Honda RC213V, a bike he will be leaving at the end of the year to join Yamaha’s factory team.
Initially, Rins was optimistic about an early return, possibly during the races in August. However, the severity of his injury and the slow recovery process of his tibia have considerably delayed his return to MotoGP. This situation has compelled the LCR Honda Team to find a substitute for him in each race. The latest substitute, Takumi Takahashi, couldn’t compete in the two Misano races as he failed to meet the championship’s minimum time during the free practice sessions.
Despite his injury, Rins has been actively supporting the LCR Honda Team. He attended the recent Grand Prix events to contribute his insights from the pit box. During the Misano GP, Rins was invited by Motogp.com to comment on the MotoGP FP2 session. During this commentary, he shared insights about his injury and the current hot topic – Marc Márquez’s future.
Rins highlighted that the main concern is not the nerves but the tibia. He mentioned, “I lack about 4 or 5 centimeters of bone, as the doctor told me in Catalunya.” He admitted that he wasn’t fully aware of the gravity of his injury until the doctors pointed out the tibia issue. Rins is now waiting for an opportunity to test his riding capabilities on the RC213V.
Rins on Marc Márquez’s Future
The MotoGP community has been rife with rumors about Marc Márquez potentially leaving Honda for Gresini Racing. Rins shared his perspective on this matter, stating, “I’ve heard many rumors about Marc, especially in the last few hours. It could be a huge shock for everyone, including Honda.”
Rins personally believes that Márquez will stay with Honda. He reasoned that Márquez has been with Honda for many years, and despite his injuries, the team respects him immensely. Rins understands Márquez’s current predicament with the bike’s performance and believes that Márquez will honor his contract with Honda for another year.
Furthermore, Rins pointed out that Márquez is tactically handling the media buzz about his future. He mentioned that Márquez is “playing” with the press through the videos he posts on his social media platforms. “The good thing? Marc is playing. He’s taking advantage of this,” Rins opined.
Conclusion
The MotoGP world is always filled with uncertainties, be it about riders’ performances, team decisions, or the future of prominent figures like Márquez. While speculations continue to swirl, riders like Rins provide an insider’s perspective, shedding light on the realities and challenges they face both on and off the track. As the season progresses, fans and enthusiasts will be keenly watching how these stories unfold and what decisions the riders and teams make for the future.