MotoGP champion Marc Marquez is facing a race against time to be fully fit ahead of the first pre-season test at Sepang next month.
For the second straight winter, the Spaniard underwent surgery, this time on his left shoulder after nursing an injury in the final races of last year following a partial dislocation at the Jerez test.
However, despite what was expected to be a more simple recovery compared to a year ago, recent social media posts from Marquez have shown a clear difference in the condition of his shoulders.
“I would like the rehabilitation to proceed better because it is more complicated than expected,” he commented at a recent gala event in Catalonia.
“Last year I underwent surgery on my left shoulder and the rehabilitation was different: this time it seemed easier and faster, but it is not.
“I hope to succeed to get back in shape and to be able to participate in the first test of the season in Malaysia.”
It is thought Marc will repeat what he did last year at Sepang by riding a reduced test program, something that may actually benefit his brother and new Honda teammate Alex, as he prepares for his first MotoGP season.
“I can give him the right advice, but we know how to distinguish the family aspect and the professional side well,” the older Marquez said.
“We will have to separate the two things, everyone will work on their own and thinking about their interests, even if at home we will try to help each other for our goals.”
The Sepang test will be held between February 4-7 before the second preseason event in Qatar on February 22-24 ahead of the first race at the same venue on March 8.
