Bagnaia Shatters Lap Record in Austrian MotoGP Practice, Eyes Race Readiness Amidst Variable Weather Concerns

Bagnaia nears race readiness following record-setting lap in Austrian MotoGP Practice

After leading Friday's Practice session at the Austrian MotoGP, Francesco Bagnaia stated his motorcycle is "nearly prepared for the competition."

Traditionally, Fridays haven't been the most favorable days of the race weekend for Francesco Bagnaia. However, during the Austrian Grand Prix this weekend, the Italian racer outperformed everyone, securing the top spot on the first day.

Bagnaia shattered the existing fastest lap record during Friday afternoon's Practice session, wrapping up a day where he nearly perfected his performance.

"Reflecting on the day's events, Bagnaia expressed his satisfaction to MotoGP.com as Friday came to an end, stating, 'I'm pleased because I believe we made the right choices throughout the day, with the exception of testing the hard front [tyre].' He opted against using the hard front tyre, citing the numerous falls experienced by riders such as Brad Binder, Pedro Acosta, and Aleix Espargaro as his reason."

"Bagnaia observed that Jorge [Martin] demonstrated considerable speed, noting that while not as rapid as when using the medium [front tyre], he maintained a steady pace."

On Friday afternoon, the current title holder also turned to Enea Bastianini for guidance, who is stationed at the opposite end of the Ducati team's garage.

I inquired about his experience using the hard-compound front tire. He mentioned that it felt fairly positive, though he noted a need for increased caution on the left side. Frankly, his eyes didn't betray a great deal of assurance, leading me to stick with the medium option instead.

Bagnaia expressed that despite choosing the medium-compound front tire, it didn't entirely meet his comfort level. "However, I'm not entirely pleased or confident with the medium [front tire], especially on the left side. Nonetheless, I opted for the medium," he stated.

Overall, Bagnaia concluded the day on a high note, believing he is almost prepared to compete.

"Truthfully, things are progressing smoothly. I'm content with the motorcycle, pleased with the sensation, the time trial was successful, and while we have aspects to enhance for tomorrow, the bike is nearly prepped for the race."

As Bagnaia anticipates the upcoming race, his primary worry appears to be the weather conditions. When questioned about the possibility of using the hard-compound front tyre during the Grand Prix, Bagnaia mentioned, “A decrease in temperature would make the medium a more suitable choice.

"Truly, the potential for rain plays a significant role, as there's a chance we'll see rain during Sunday's race, which might lead to a flag-to-flag situation. However, the weather here is notoriously unpredictable, with forecasts changing daily. Despite predictions of rain for both today and tomorrow, we'll just have to wait and see what happens. Regardless, we're taking things one step at a time and feeling good about our progress, maintaining our optimism for what's to come."

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