Marc Marquez has his first opportunity to clinch the 2025 MotoGP title in the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday - and his task has grown easier than expected earlier in the weekend.
Marc had come into the weekend knowing he would need to outscore brother Alex by three points to clinch the championship. But he already finished eight places clear of Alex in the sprint, creating a nine-point swing on Saturday.
It means that Marc's task is now just to avoid being outscored by Alex, who starts five places behind on Sunday, by seven points.
What Marc needs to do
If Alex wins the Japanese GP, Marc needs to be 2nd
If Alex is 2nd, Marc needs to be 3rd or better
If Alex is 3rd, Marc needs to be 6th or better
If Alex is 4th, Marc needs to be 9th or better
if Alex is 5th, Marc needs to be 11th or better
If Alex is 6th, Marc needs to be 12th or better
If Alex is 7th, Marc needs to be 13th or better
If Alex is 8th, Marc needs to be 14th or better
If Alex is 9th, Marc needs to be 15th or better
If Alex is 10th or lower, Marc is champion
Clinching the title at Motegi would come with five rounds to spare, which would be the earliest coronation in premier-class history.
Marquez said on Friday that he would prioritise sealing the title early over any individual result at Motegi.
"I mean, when you get the championship, on Monday nobody will speak about which position you finish the race," he said.
"You cannot ride in the same way [when you're on the verge of a title]. It's true.
"I prefer to close the championship. Doesn't matter about the position."
