Rins wins Grand Prix of the Americas as Marquez crashes
LOS ANGELES: Spain’s Alex Rins swept to victory in the Grand Prix of the Americas on Sunday, claiming his first career MotoGP win after compatriot Marc Marquez crashed out of contention.
Suzuki rider Rins held off a ferocious challenge from Italy’s Valentino Rossi over the closing stages to take the chequered flag at Austin’s Circuit of the Americas in Texas.
Australia’s Jack Miller on a Ducati finished third.
Rins’ maiden win brought Honda rider Marquez’s long reign of dominance in Austin to an end.
Marquez, who started on pole, had scored six consecutive victories in the Texan city heading into this weekend’s event, the third leg of the 2019 MotoGP World Championship. But his challenge ended when he crashed on turn 12 of the ninth lap while leading.
Rins meanwhile was left to celebrate after becoming the first man to win in Texas in all three categories. He won the Moto3 race in Austin in 2013 and the Moto2 event at the circuit in 2016.
“I am so happy I don’t have words to describe how I feel. When I crossed the finish line my emotions exploded,” the 23-year- old said afterwards.
“Suzuki has done a great job, and created a wonderful motorbike. And to beat Valentino, who was my idol when I was a kid, is incredible for me,” he added.
Italy’s Andrea Dovizioso, who finished fourth on Sunday, moved to the top of the overall standings with 54 points, followed by Rossi ( 51), Rins (49) and Marquez (45). — AFP