Marc Marquez curious to see Aleix Espargaro on Factory bike

Reigning MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez reckons it would be interesting to see Aleix Espargaro’s performance potential if the Spaniard managed to secure a Factory ride in the future.

Espargaro has caught the eye in 2014 with a series of impressive performances for Forward Racing, riding Yamaha’s Open class YZR-M1 project.

He has finished in the top six four times and claimed one pole position in Assen last month. And the older brother of current Moto2 world champion Pol Espargaro has made no secret of his desire to secure a Factory bike next season.

Espargaro has been linked with Suzuki and LCR Honda and Marquez believes it will be interesting to see how much more competitive the 24-year-old could be on better equipment.

Marquez said: “He is a good rider and in the Open class he’s always first and close to the top and we will see if he can find a Factory bike. It will be interesting to see where he can ride and how he can perform.”

It is widely believed that Espargaro will lead Suzuki’s MotoGP return next season with reigning Moto3 world champion Maverick Vinales also joining the Japanese manufacturer.

Espargaro has emerged as a big favourite to join Suzuki after Cal Crutchlow and Andrea Dovizioso both confirmed they will be staying with Ducati next season during last weekend’s World Ducati Week.