Joerg Teuchert
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New Honda WorldSBK rider Iker Lecuona does not expect Repsol Honda to replace Marc Marquez at the official MotoGP Sepang test next month if the eight-time world champion is ruled out.
Marquez, who is still recovering from diplopia (double vision), returned to motorcycle training for the first time in three months on Thursday, before appearing and speaking to the media at the Honda Motorsport media event 2022 from today.
However, that doesn’t mean Marquez has been cleared for next month’s first official MotoGP pre-season test. Marquez’s next goal is to race a 1000cc Superbike or RC213V-S road bike on a grand prix track.
If Marquez passes this test without a hitch, then an official return to MotoGP action can take place at Sepang.
Although nothing is confirmed yet, new Honda WorldSBK rider Iker Lecuona has been mentioned as a possible replacement for his fellow Spaniard.
But when speaking to the world media on the official HRC team rider introduction day, Lecuona said he knew “nothing” and therefore did not expect to be requested.
“I can’t say anything. I’ve read a lot of news in the media but for my part, if I’m honest, my manager never told me anything about this or the MotoGP (riding) bike”, added Lecuona. “For Marquez, I think he will do the first race in Qatar so I can’t say anything because I don’t know anything.”
Lecuona also hasn’t had an injury-free offseason following a crash in his one and only WorldSBK test last month.
The Honda rider suffered a broken little finger (left hand) which caused him to miss half of the second and final day at Jerez, while leaving him without any motorcycling action since that time.
However, Lecuona have made good progress in recent weeks and are now set to take part in a test next weekend.
Speaking about his own injury and his position, Lecuona said: “As far as my hand is concerned, I feel good. This morning I had a meeting with the doctor and he gave me very good news.
“He told me in six or seven days we have; maybe not the last check but I can ride in a week basically, I can ride the bike next weekend. It’s not the best time to get hurt, but I’m starting work now.
“I have already cycled for a week at home or to go to the gym. Now I will try to be ready for the first test but I am very happy because honestly it looks very good.”
