Marc and Alex Marquez have both had a stellar start to their 2025 MotoGP season, demonstrating impressive skill and consistency on the track. However, amid their strong performances, some critics have suggested that Alex Marquez has occasionally allowed his older brother, Marc, to pass him during races. This allegation was firmly dismissed by Neil Hodgson during TNT Sports’ live coverage of the free practice session at the Grand Prix of the Americas in Austin, Texas, over the weekend.

Hodgson, a former professional racer and now a respected commentator, did not hold back in his response to these claims. “If you believe that Alex Marquez is letting Marc win, you know nothing about motorcycle racing,” Hodgson declared. His statement left no room for doubt—he found the idea absurd and completely detached from the competitive nature of the sport.

The Spanish brothers have had a remarkable opening to the season, with both riders occupying the top spots in the championship standings. Marc Marquez, a multiple-time world champion, secured victories in Thailand and Argentina, setting the tone for his campaign. Meanwhile, Alex has also shown significant improvements, consistently competing at the front of the pack.

Despite their brotherly bond, both Marc and Alex are fierce competitors who push themselves to the limit on the track. Some observers have pointed to moments where Alex appeared to show deference to Marc, fueling speculation that he was holding back in races. However, Hodgson dismissed these theories outright, emphasizing that such accusations are unfounded.

“Who is saying this?” Hodgson questioned. “If you’re suggesting that Alex lets Marc through, it proves you don’t understand the dynamics of professional motorcycle racing. I highly doubt any credible journalist would make such a claim. There’s no way someone covering this sport seriously would suggest that.”

Hodgson’s impassioned defense of Alex Marquez was echoed by TNT Sports host Suzi Perry. She acknowledged the frustration such allegations might cause Alex and recognized his relentless efforts to establish himself in the premier class. “You can understand why Alex would be angry about this,” Perry remarked. “He is working incredibly hard and, my goodness, he is doing a fantastic job.”

Hodgson further elaborated on why the accusations irritated him. “It frustrates me!” he exclaimed. For him, the very notion that a professional rider like Alex Marquez would intentionally allow another competitor—family or not—to pass him goes against the fundamental principles of racing. Every rider on the grid fights tooth and nail for their position, and the idea of voluntary surrendering a place in such a high-stakes championship is simply not realistic.

Marc Marquez, despite being caught in the controversy, remained focused on his performance. During the first practice session at the Grand Prix of the Americas, he posted the third-fastest time despite suffering a heavy crash on a wet track. His ability to recover and still perform at a high level is a testament to his experience and resilience.

Alex Marquez, on the other hand, secured the seventh-fastest time in the session, showing his own capabilities against a highly competitive field. Franco Morbidelli topped the session, demonstrating strong pace early in the weekend.

The Grand Prix of the Americas has already proven to be an eventful and dramatic race weekend. With high-profile crashes, costly mistakes, and a resurgent performance from defending champion Pecco Bagnaia, the championship battle is heating up.

As the season progresses, the rivalry between the Marquez brothers is likely to remain a topic of discussion. However, the idea that Alex would deliberately let Marc win is not one that holds weight among those who truly understand the sport. Both riders are elite competitors, each striving to make their mark in MotoGP history. The Marquez brothers’ success this season is a reflection of their talent, hard work, and dedication, rather than any perceived favoritism or team orders.

For now, all eyes remain on the upcoming races, where Marc and Alex will continue to prove their worth on the track—independent of baseless accusations. As the competition intensifies, fans can expect thrilling battles, unexpected twists, and the undeniable passion that defines MotoGP racing.