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Marc Marquez Edges Martin in FP1 at the Japanese MotoGP, Nakagami Injured
Marquez used a late lap to top FP1 by 0.099 seconds as Nakagami’s highside left him with a fractured left collarbone.
Marc Marquez set the fastest time in opening practice at Motegi, edging title rival Jorge Martin by 0.099s, while HRC wildcard Takaaki Nakagami suffered a fractured left collarbone in a highside crash at Turn 11.
Martin enters the weekend holding a 12-point championship lead over Marquez, though rain spots at the start of the session limited track time as riders adapted to the newly resurfaced circuit at Motegi.
Marco Bezzecchi finished third, outpacing Aprilia Racing team-mate Martin, while Maverick Vinales returned to the grid in 18th place and Honda's Johann Zarco and Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo featured in the top rankings.
Nakagami's withdrawal creates logistical challenges for HRC regarding Joan Mir's replacement for next weekend's Indonesian round, as Somkiat Chantra remains committed to WorldSBK duties.
Afternoon Practice starts at 3pm local time, with riders expected to switch to medium front tires as the field targets further improvements and spots in the Q2 qualifying session.
Attack by Marc Marquez, damage limitation for Jorge Martin? MotoGP Friday in Motegi is supposed to provide clear signs in the title fight. But the Aprilia pilot is not to be written off.