Just six laps, an already interesting already lap time, and a satisfied smile on returning to the garage. This was how Marc Marquez’s adventure aboard the team Gresini GP23 began this morning at Valencia.

For those who appreciate detail, Marc officially headed out on track at 11.13am, passing between a throng of interested onlookers. And the rest, starting with the pit board that the Italian team held out on his first lap – “Welcome to the family” – has quickly gone viral, also thanks to Marc’s immediate speed.

Marc already pleased

By the time he started his sixth timed lap, his pace through sector one put him momentarily ahead of the rider in first, although he ultimately finished the lap in third place, with a 1’30”683. A time that, to give you an idea, is just five tenths slower than the best time set in Sunday’s race, by Brad Binder.

But what was most striking was Marc’s smile as he returned to the garage – a smile that expressed satisfaction, joy and excitement. “I shouldn’t brake too aggressively”, his first words that the TV channels picked up in the garage, “or overdo it. I feel confident, but I don’t know how it will be when I lost the front. It’s less tiring than the Honda, particularly in the changes of direction”. Essentially, Marc likes his new toy, so it’s going to be fun.