French Fans Roar as Quartararo Grabs Home Pole in Record Time

LE MANS, France — Yamaha’s Fabio Quartararo thrilled the sellout crowd at Le Mans today as he snatched pole position for the French Grand Prix, breaking Marc Marquez’s lap record in the process.

Quartararo Storms to the Front

Having already broken the lap record during Friday’s practice, Ducati’s Marc Marquez improved upon his time in the early stages of the second qualifying session to set a daunting pace.

However, Quartararo, riding on the waves of home support, rose to the challenge. He completed one more lap than Marquez, crossing the line with a new track record of 1:29.324 seconds. The crowd erupted, singing “La Marseillaise,” as Quartararo asked for calm.

“It was amazing to get this pole position, thanks to all the fans supporting us. It’s a really important pole position, but we need to get the points later and on Sunday.”

Fabio Quartararo

Back-to-Back Poles for Fabio

This pole position marks the second consecutive time Quartararo has gone fastest in qualifying, following his performance at the Spanish Grand Prix.

Marquez’s Charm Offensive

Despite missing out on pole, Marquez was gracious in defeat. “Fabio rode in an incredible way, he deserves this pole position in front of his fans. He was doing a superb job in Jerez too,” he said.

“But I’m happy with my pace and starting on the front row was my main target.”

Marc Marquez

Championship Leader and Friends Rounding Out the Top Five

World championship leader Alex Marquez of Gresini Racing qualified third, while his teammate Fermin Aldeguer will start on the second row alongside KTM Tech3’s Maverick Vinales and Ducati’s Francesco Bagnaia.

FAQs

• When is the French Grand Prix?

  The French Grand Prix takes place on Sunday, May 15, 2023.

• Where can I watch the French Grand Prix?

  The race will be broadcast live on various networks. Check your local listings for more information.