Image: Supplied.

Petronas Yamaha SRT’s Fabio Quartararo has described his battle with Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda) at the Misano grand prix as the best moment of his career, despite falling short of victory.

The MotoGP rookie led for majority of the encounter before Marquez made a pass for the lead on the final lap, however Quartararo hit-back with a move for the top spot, but the reigning world champion capitalised on a minor error to steal P1 in the dying moments.

“I can only be happy about the result,” Quartararo stated. “We led the race until almost the end, but I knew Marc would try something on the last lap because he’s been fast all weekend. I was able to pass him back when he did, but I just went a little bit wide when he overtook me for a second time.

“I was faster than him in turn 11 and I fought until the end, but we had to settle for second. He had better grip at the end in one side of his tyres but I had an advantage on the right side, which is something to be proud of because it means I’m learning how to manage them.

“I gave it my all, but Marc has more experience in last lap battles and today he was able to use it all. It’s the first time I’ve even able to fight with him, and to be able to have battled with a seven-time World Champion is the best moment of my career so far.”

The Frenchman moved to the top of the Independent leaderboard, while he’s now ranked seventh in the championship standings.