Honda has completely revised its RC213V for 2022 after several difficult seasons on the bike, with Marquez’s 2020 injury layoff and physical problems in 2021 prompting HRC into a rethink.
The new RC213V had proven to be a strong package throughout testing and into the Qatar weekend, with Marquez third on the grid and Espargaro sixth.
The pair ran 1-2 in the early stages of Sunday’s 22-lap race, with Espargaro leading for 18 tours before eventually finishing third as his soft tyres faded.
Despite not converting his long-time lead into a maiden win, Espargaro believes Honda has already shown how strong it can be in 2022 with its new bike.
“It’s nice, it’s very nice,” he said of his podium.
“To finish third, sure it’s not what you want to get at the end when you are leading all of the race.
“But I think we, myself and Honda, sent a message tonight that not just Marc Marquez is able to win with the Honda.
“And this is created out of many, many years of just one guy…
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