Marc Marquez Aims to Conquer New Ayrton Senna Circuit in MotoGP Brasil 2026

KOMPAS.com - Marc Marquez, a Ducati Lenovo rider, is set to face a major challenge at the new Ayrton Senna circuit, which has never been used in the modern MotoGP calendar.

The high levels of enthusiasm shown by Marc Marquez in welcoming the MotoGP Brasil 2026 event, scheduled to take place from March 20-22, 2026, suggest he's ready for the test of his skills.

This weekend's finale will undoubtedly prove to be a rigorous assessment for the riders' instincts, considering nearly all the riders have yet to experience the asphalt of the Ayrton Senna, Goiania, Brazil.

The challenges in Brazil this time around can be considered unique due to the limited technical references.

There have been only three documented instances of riders, including Diogo Moreira, Franco Morbidelli, and Luca Marini, who have ridden on this track as part of promotional activities, not official testing sessions.

Marc Marquez, known as The Baby Alien, boasts an impressive track record as a specialist at conquering new circuits.

Throughout his career, he has won four inaugural races on new tracks, starting with COTA in 2013, Termas de Rio Hondo in 2014, Buriram in 2018, and Balaton Park in 2025.

"Brazil will be a unique GP for all racers," Marc Marquez said, as quoted from the official Ducati website.

Although the 3.835 km circuit last hosted the GP Brazil in 1989 - the year Marc Marquez was still in his infancy - the 33-year-old rider remains optimistic.

Alongside the Ducati Lenovo team, Marquez continues to delve deep into the layout of the Ayrton Senna circuit using various available simulation data.

The focus of the rider on the first day is to avoid making even the smallest mistakes to ensure accurate data on the motor.

"We don't have a good reference point. (However) I'm happy to be in a new country, with so many passionate MotoGP fans," he stressed.

"The circuit is extremely short, and may be very hot. We will take full advantage of the Friday to adapt without making mistakes," he added.

His teammate, Francesco Bagnaia, expressed a similar sense of curiosity.

Bagnaia highlighted the immense enthusiasm of the Brazilian fans, which could potentially elevate the competitive atmosphere in the second leg of this season.

"There's always a sense of curiosity before arriving at a new circuit," Bagnaia said.

"I'm eager to see. The circuit may be small, but we'll see its value on Friday. It will be a busy day," he continued.

"I'm also curious to see how the fans will welcome us; they seem genuinely excited about MotoGP," Bagnaia concluded.