Marc Marquez Wins Australian Sprint As Jorge Martin Crashes Out

Marc Marquez stormed home from pole position to win the Australian MotoGP sprint race on Saturday and seize control of the world championship from Jorge Martin, who crashed out while challenging for the lead. turn3search22 The reigning seven-time world champion, who dominated qualifying, had too much pace onhis Ducati as he surged to the chequered flag ahead of his brother Alex in the 13-lap contest. turn3search21 The victory put him 10 points clear of fellow Spaniard Martin in the standings ahead o the final MotoGP race ever at the waterfront Phillip Island circuit on Sunday. turn3search22

Martin, who started fourth under dark clouds but with the rain staying away, took the ead on lap three in a ding-dong battle with his rival.

But he lost control on lap eight while challenging for the lead again, dealing a massive blow to his championship ambitions. turn3search22

"It was a tight battle," said Marquez. "Of course, I gave everything. I was aggressive and he (Martin) was faster than me.

"But I tried to defend in the best way possible. Both of us were riding at the limit. Both of us deserved the victory because we were pushing a lot.

"But, you know, racing is what it is."

His brother Alex, who started second, completed an all-Ducati podium along with Fabio Di Giannantonio. turn3search21

Aprilia's Marco Bezzecchi, who won the MotoGP last week in Indonesia, finished fourth o remain third in the standings, 50 points behind Marquez. turn3search21

Marc Marquez held the line to lead into the opening corner, with Martin moving up to scond and Johann Zarco third, and the order remained unchanged at the end of lap one.

Martin was pressing hard and took the lead on lap three as the race turned into a dogfight between the two championship contenders, who pulled clear of the rest of the field.

A big mistake from Martin, who ran wide on lap five, opened the door again for Marquez, with the lead changing hands several times as they battled for supremacy.

But Martin pushed too hard and sensationally lost control on lap eight, skidding out to end his race. turn3search24

Phillip Island has been a staple on the MotoGP calendar since 1997, but the AustralianGrand Prix will move to a street circuit in Adelaide from next year. turn3search26

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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