Photo via Crash.net

Late-starting Marc Marquez leads Sepang MotoGP warm-up, Qatar title chance?

Marc Marquez dominated the warm-up session at Sepang, finishing nearly half a second ahead of the rest of the field despite starting his run late. The Ducati rider, who has already extended his championship lead to 19 points over Jorge Martín, could secure a mathematical title shot in Qatar if he finishes first or second in today’s race.

With only two rounds remaining after Qatar, Marquez would need to maintain his advantage—currently 38 points—to stay in contention, leveraging his six Grand Prix wins this season as a tiebreaker if points are tied. Meanwhile, riders prepared for challenging conditions, with most opting for soft tires and a possible rain delay during the afternoon race, which begins at 3 p.m.

local time. The session also saw Ducati’s Franco Morbidelli as the only rider to fall, adding to the day’s early drama ahead of the main event.

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