MotoGP legend warns COTA could be "worst case scenario" for rivals

Posted : 28 March 2025

MotoGP legend Kevin Schwantz has expressed concern that this weekend's Americas Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) could be the "worst case scenario" for Marc Marquez's competitors. Marquez, an eight-time world champion, has dominated the 2025 season so far, securing pole positions in both races and winning both sprints and main races. This strong start has given him a 16-point lead over his brother, Alex Marquez, while his factory Ducati teammate, Pecco Bagnaia, is 31 points behind in third place.

Given Marquez’s impressive track record at COTA, many expect his dominance to continue. He won his first MotoGP race at the Texas venue in 2013 and went on to win six consecutive races there up until 2018, with his latest victory at COTA in 2021. Schwantz, the 1993 500cc world champion, commented on Marquez’s early success this season, saying, “Everybody in the loop kind of predicted that.”

Schwantz noted that COTA has been a stronghold for Marquez, where he has historically excelled. He pointed out that while Marquez didn’t dominate in the last few years, his previous streak of seven consecutive wins at the venue was remarkable. The Texas circuit has long been a favorite for Marquez, and few expect his dominance to falter this weekend.

Marquez’s quick start to the 2025 season has surprised some, including Schwantz. He acknowledged the challenges of adapting to modern machines, especially when switching from one brand to another, but he emphasized that Marquez's talent is evident, particularly in his handling of the Honda, a bike that has been notoriously difficult for others to master. Schwantz noted, “It’s kind of a surprise,” adding that Marquez's performance is a testament to his raw ability.

As the season progresses, Schwantz warned that it could be a long and challenging year for Marquez's rivals. With his early dominance and the backing of his factory Ducati team, Marquez is positioned as the clear favorite to win the championship. Schwantz’s comments suggest that the rest of the field may struggle to match Marquez’s pace, particularly at tracks like COTA, where he has had such strong performances in the past.

The challenge for Marquez’s competitors is clear: they need to find a way to contend with his exceptional skill and consistency, particularly at COTA, a venue where he has made a name for himself as one of the most dominant riders in MotoGP history. Schwantz's assessment indicates that unless something changes, Marquez’s rivals may face a tough and lengthy battle in the 2025 season.

MotoGP legend warns COTA could be "worst case scenario" for rivals

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