And much will be expected of reigning World Champion Joan Mir , who scored his first podium of the season the last time out in Portugal . The Suzuki star has enjoyed mixed results here in the past as a MotoGP™ rider , but has stepped up his riding since his last visit . He ’ ll be keen to chase down Quartararo from his fifth-place spot in the championship , 23 points back .
Also : pay attention to Marc Marquez . The 28-yearold made a heroic return in Portugal after an absence of nine months , and still managed to finish seventh . Yes , this is the scene of the accident that ended his championship last year , but he has always loved Jerez . He has scored three MotoGP™ victories here , and has never finished a MotoGP™ race off the podium . 52 points off the title lead , he can ’ t be discounted for the title – yet .
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