MotoGP: Marc Marquez Takes Part in Honda Thanks Day Post Gresini Ducati Test

Marc Marquez travelled to Japan to attend his last Honda Thanks Day after making his Gresini Ducati debut at the recent Valencia test. Although Marquez's right forearm was bandaged after a recent arm pump surgery, he eagerly joined the other legendary Honda racers both from two and four wheels. At this weekend's regular season-ending celebration at Motegi, notable attendees included Formula One world champion Max Verstappen, Sergio Perez, Daniel Ricciardo, Yuki Tsunoda, Joan Mir and more. As Marquez's HRC contract, which was supposed to end a year later, finally ends on December 31, this appearance served as a touching farewell to Honda in Japan.

F1 Drivers joins Honda Thanks Day

Similar to 2022, Max Verstappen once again graced the Honda Thanks Day event this year. The famous Japanese racing track Twin Ring Motegi, which stages MotoGP every year, is located at the Mobility Resort Motegi, where the gathering took place.

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Along with Verstappen, Honda had a plethora of other drivers representing the brand across a wide range of racing disciplines. Among this esteemed group were Red Bull Racing's Sergio Perez, AlphaTauri's Daniel Ricciardo, and Yuki Tsunoda.

Verstappen was one of many participants in the event's exciting karting race and mesmerising exhibitions. The karting race the year before was won decisively by the combination of Verstappen and Marquez, who formed a strong championship team, defeating the Perez and Tsunoda teams.

What is Honda Thanks Day?

Annually, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. organises Honda Thanks Day as a way to commemorate its dedication to its motorsport fans. This special occasion is a sincere way for Honda to show its appreciation to its loyal customers, respected business companions, and esteemed partners. Distinguished members of Honda's motor racing community, including those from Formula 1 and MotoGP, together with other notable names in the motorsports world, attended the event.

Very special feelings at Honda Racing Thanks Day ????????

Thanks for everything, Japan #HRTD2023 pic.twitter.com/SQIJqksvVE

— Marc Márquez (@marcmarquez93) December 3, 2023

Attendees of Honda Thanks Day are treated to a dazzling display of events and displays that showcase the company's wide range of vehicles, from agile motorcycles to the high-performance wonders of Formula 1 cars. Track activities, exhibits, and interactive workshops come together at this event to create a unique and engaging experience for everyone who attends.

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This year, the Twin Ring Motegi circuit in Japan, a prestigious racing site proudly owned by Honda, has often served as the magnificent venue for Honda Thanks Day. In addition to commemorating Honda's achievements in motorsports, the event provides a meaningful platform for the company to engage with the dedicated fan base that consistently backs the brand.