As we approach the 2024 Thai MotoGP this weekend, fans are reminiscing about two unforgettable last-lap showdowns in Buriram from 2018 and 2019. These back-to-back races at the Chang International Circuit cemented the Thai GP’s status as a venue for edge-of-your-seat MotoGP action, with thrilling battles that have become part of MotoGP legend.
2018: Marquez vs Dovizioso – A Showdown for the Ages
The inaugural Thai MotoGP in 2018 marked a historic moment, with Marc Marquez narrowly beating Ducati's Andrea Dovizioso in a thrilling final-turn battle. Marquez crossed the line with a mere 0.115-second lead, securing a hard-fought victory. The intense race saw Yamaha's Maverick Vinales and Valentino Rossi fighting closely for the lead, but it was Marquez and Dovizioso who stole the show, battling it out from start to finish.
A significant talking point was Jorge Lorenzo's absence after a high-side crash during Friday’s session, leading to injuries that forced him to withdraw from the weekend. Michelin recommended the hard rear tyre to cope with the extreme conditions, adding another layer of strategy to the race. Meanwhile, WorldSBK rider Jordi Torres stepped in to replace the injured Tito Rabat on the Avintia team, adding further intrigue to the grid.
Marquez's triumph in the sweltering heat of Buriram set the tone for what would become a fierce rivalry with Dovizioso in future races. The Spaniard finished the race in 39m 55.722s, with Dovizioso only 0.115 seconds behind.
WATCH video here:
It almost always comes down to the last corner in Thailand 🔥#ThaiGP 🇹🇭 pic.twitter.com/ercRNCo3R5
— MotoGP™🏁 (@MotoGP) October 23, 2024
2019: Marquez Outshines Rookie Sensation Quartararo
The 2019 edition of the Thai MotoGP delivered another nail-biting conclusion, but this time Marquez was up against Petronas Yamaha’s rising star, Fabio Quartararo. Quartararo, in just his 15th premier-class race, led much of the race and looked poised for his maiden MotoGP victory. However, Marquez, who had already secured his eighth World Championship, was determined not to let the French rookie steal the spotlight.
In a stunning last-lap duel, Marquez made his move on Quartararo, but the 20-year-old rookie retaliated, overtaking the champion into the tight final corner. Yet Marquez had the perfect response, cutting back on the inside to claim victory by just 0.171 seconds.
"I was planning this weekend to win the race, regardless of the championship," Marquez said after the race. Quartararo, although disappointed, was proud of his performance, saying, "I fought until the last corner. If I hadn’t tried that move, I wouldn’t go home happy."