World Champions, Marc & Alex Marquez, Showcase Exceptional Balance in Scooter Challenge Preceding Thailand MotoGP

By motoph admin on October 27, 2023

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It was not the bustling streets of Thailand, but the quiet, grassy dirt tracks of Buriram that witnessed a thrilling scooter race between the 8-time MotoGP world Champion, Marc Marquez, and his Moto2 world Champion brother, Alex Marquez, as they skillfully maneuvered their modest scooters adorned with towering stacks. This eccentric pre-Grand Prix challenge became a spectacle, displaying their extraordinary balance and fierce competitiveness.

In the initial leg of the scooter race, Marc and Alex grappled with the task of navigating 17 bags filled with Thai silk, totaling over 150kg in weight and stretching over 4 meters wide. The first roundabout saw a collision, with Alex making a wide final turn that led to a ditch encounter, ultimately allowing Marc to cross the finish line first.

In the subsequent race, the Marquez brothers tackled a course featuring over 200 Thai bamboo baskets stacked almost 7 meters tall. Marc had taken an early lead until his baskets snagged an adjacent tree on the final straight, opening the door for Alex to secure a last-minute victory.

Marc and Alex Marquez pose together in Buriram, Thailand, on October 25, 2023. // Sean Chen / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202310252511 // Usage for editorial use only //

Marc and Alex’s pre-race scooter competition not only provided a glimpse into the local Thai culture but also fostered a lighthearted camaraderie as they prepared for the upcoming Grand Prix in Buriram this weekend.

Marc and Alex Marquez race with bamboo baskets in Buriram, Thailand, on October 25, 2023. // Sean Chen / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202310252488 // Usage for editorial use only //

Riding a Loaded Scooter – A Unique Challenge “To ride the loaded scooter was a bit unusual because when you’re turning, especially when you hit some bumps, the scooter was moving quite heavily in an aggressive manner. When I see all the scooters in Bangkok and in Buriram, even tuk tuks, I realize this must be difficult, especially in the middle of traffic. And I appreciate it a lot because they [local riders] have truly remarkable skills,” shared Marc Marquez with a hearty laugh.

Marc and Alex Marquez race with bags of Thai Silk in Buriram, Thailand, on October 25, 2023. // Sean Chen / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202310252504 // Usage for editorial use only //

Alex Marquez echoed similar sentiments, saying, “What I enjoyed most was the race against Marc with the cones. We had a few close calls, but it was really enjoyable. Challenging to manage, yet truly fun!”

New Team, New Challenge The mini competition, potentially foreshadowing what lies ahead, unfolded in the wake of Marc Marquez’s recent announcement to join a new team next year. This strategic move has sent shockwaves through the racing community, as Marc and Alex are set to unite at the Gresini Ducati team in 2024, setting the stage for a narrative of brotherly teamwork and unwavering competitive spirit.

“It will be a fantastic challenge next year competing with another manufacturer and another team, but especially with and against my brother,” Marc Marquez expressed.

Despite the whirlwind of recent changes in Marc’s career, the atmosphere was undeniably charged, a feeling that is anticipated to reverberate through the actual race event this weekend. Marc is eager to close out the remaining 2023 season on a high note and is excited to reconnect with the passionate Thai fans once again.

“It’s wonderful to be back in Thailand because I have very fond memories. My last championship was here in Thailand, in Buriram in 2019. I’ve always had a strong connection with the Thai fans. I appreciate them because they are incredibly passionate,” remarked Marc.

Red Bull Energy Zone Fans are invited to visit the exclusive Red Bull Energy Zone throughout the race weekend to further immerse themselves in the racing atmosphere. In addition to exclusive meet-and-greet sessions with Red Bull’s riders, attendees can partake in various on-ground activities for a chance to win official Red Bull KTM Factory Racing merchandise. The top scorers will earn an exclusive tour of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing garage and will be hosted in their hospitality area on Sunday.

For those interested in delving deeper into Marc’s perseverance and journey in the racing world, the MotoGP docu-series ‘Marc Marquez: ALL IN’ presents a unique opportunity. It showcases pivotal moments in his Honda career, from challenging times like his 2011 crash in Malaysia that resulted in diplopia and required surgery, to his 2020 MotoGP Spanish Grand Prix crash that led to a fractured humerus, as well as major milestones like his 100th podium finish.

Fans can immerse themselves in Marc’s relentless pursuit of triumph over adversity, exploring a captivating journey through a champion’s path to recovery and his unwavering resolve to return to the track even stronger. Stream it FREE today on Red Bull TV.