Iker Lecuona calls Marc Marquez’s MotoGP data ‘very peculiar’ after Honda stint

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Why Lecuona struggled to follow Marc Marquez’s path at Honda

Iker Lecuona stepped in for Marc Marquez during the 2023 MotoGP season at Honda, with access to some of the most valuable data available. But he found it wasn’t as simple as following in Marquez’s footsteps.

Lecuona’s time in MotoGP wasn’t smooth. He debuted with Tech3 in 2019 and was promoted to KTM’s factory team by 2021. After just one season, though, he lost his seat and spent a year away from the grid.

He returned in 2023 when Honda needed a replacement for the injured Marquez. Even though the eight-time world champion was struggling with performance issues on the RC213V, Lecuona was quick to point out just how much ability he still showed.

The Spaniard had a reputation for his distinctive riding style, especially under braking. Jorge Lorenzo famously said that trying to replicate his approach just didn’t work because of how naturally comfortable he was on the bike.

Even during his toughest period, Marquez still managed moments that reminded everyone why he’d been so successful. His data, even when things weren’t going well, continued to show signs of what made him unique.

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Iker Lecuona didn’t find Marc Marquez’s Honda data useful

Lecuona stepped in for Marquez at Jerez and later filled in for his Honda teammate Joan Mir at Assen during the 2023 season. After reviewing both of their telemetry, he found that Marquez’s data wasn’t helpful, as he couldn’t replicate the way Marquez handled the bike.

Speaking on the Fast & Curious Podcast, Lecuona explained: “I have to say I didn’t watch Marc much. Because it’s true, he takes corners very differently from everyone else. He has something extra, a very peculiar riding style, which works for him because it’s his own, it’s unique.