Why Marc Marquez wants protege Maximo Quiles to face Moto2 hurdles next year

Pulse Sports Team 14:24 - 16 October 2026

Marc Marquez has lauded Maximo Quiles' blistering speed following his Moto3 title triumph, but admitted he hopes his protege encounters some difficulties during his rookie Moto2 campaign next season.

Following an impressive 2025 rookie campaign where he took three wins to finish third overall, the Spaniard proved untouchable in Moto3 throughout 2026. He dominated the field with 10 victories, clinching the world championship crown in Indonesia with five rounds to spare.

Quiles is a protege of the Marquez brothers and a regular training partner of the duo. The young Spaniard will step up to Moto2 next season after penning a two-year deal with the Aspar Team, with expectations pointing toward a premier-class MotoGP debut by 2029.

Speaking to the media in Indonesia, Marc Marquez was asked whether he anticipates racing against Quiles in MotoGP in the future. While confident in the youngster's sheer pace, Marquez hopes Quiles faces early hurdles to gain vital experience and remain grounded.

"I don't know, because he currently has a two-year deal in Moto2. That's the natural progression. Maximo possesses extraordinary talent; he's simply incredible. I hope—and even wish—that he struggles a bit next year, at least at the beginning of pre-season testing and during the first few races. Not because I want bad things for him, but so he can learn from the experience.
"However, I believe he'll find his pace very quickly. I've trained with him often, and regardless of what bike he's riding, he's always blisteringly fast. We'll see. Right now, his head is in the clouds at times, but he needs to keep his feet on the ground and continue working hard," Marquez stated.