Marquez Brothers' Sepang Circuit Contrast
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 7 (Bernama) -- The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) continues to divide opinion in the MotoGP paddock, with riders describing the Malaysian venue as both a "favourite" and the "most unforgiving" track on the world championship calendar.
As pre-season winter testing concludes ahead of the 2026 campaign, riders praised the 5.543 kilometre (km) circuit, which remains one of the most technical and demanding layouts in world motorsport.
For reigning world champion Marc Marquez, who spearheads the Ducati Lenovo team, Sepang remains a daunting challenge despite his decorated career.
The Spaniard labelled the track as one of his "worst" venues, citing a layout that clashes with his aggressive riding style.
"To be honest, it’s one of my worst tracks. It’s one of the layouts that I struggle with the most. For some reason, my riding style always struggles here and at Catalunya. I don't particularly like the layout, even though I feel comfortable being in Malaysia," he said during the Moto Grand Prix (GP) 2026 season launch at Petronas Twin Towers here today.
Despite his previous struggles at SIC, the seven-time MotoGP champion remains unfazed by the pressure of defending his title.
"I don't feel pressured because the most challenging thing in my career, coming back from injury, is already done. I will give 100 per cent to fight for the championship because that is why we are with Ducati Lenovo, but I feel relaxed and happy," he added.
In stark contrast, his younger brother and BK8 Gresini Team rider Alex Marquez views the Sepang track as one of his favourites.
Having dominated the Malaysian GP last year, Alex enters the new season with high confidence after topping the winter testing timesheets last Thursday.
"It is one of my favourite tracks. I have achieved many good results here, and I have a really good feeling at Sepang. I won the Moto2 title here, so it holds a special place for me," Alex said.
The younger Marquez also highlighted the unique energy of the local crowd, noting the distinction between Asian and European fanbases.
"The Asian fans are really noisy, passionate and 'crazy' in a way we love. The European fans are also noisy, but a little more calm. We enjoy having both kinds of atmospheres throughout the season," he said.
The Malaysian MotoGP has been a staple at SIC since 1999, only missing the 2020 and 2021 seasons due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 2026 season is expected to draw record crowds as the rivalry between the Marquez brothers intensifies on the world stage.
-- BERNAMA
