Alex Rins: ‘I'm determined to return to using the same chassis as Fabio’

"I rode alongside Fabio… He performed quite well, and the difference is evident. I can't bring the bike to a stop."

Alex Rins plans to switch back to using the same Yamaha chassis as his teammate, Fabio Quartararo, after encountering difficulties in the heavy braking zones during Friday's practice session for the Thai MotoGP.

In the afternoon session, Quartararo initially led the pack and remained among the top three as the time attack phase commenced. However, he faced ongoing challenges in getting the best performance out of new tires on the M1, which resulted in him dropping to 12th place, trailing by 0.591 seconds.

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Rins struggled to climb the ranks and ultimately finished in 18th position, trailing Quartararo by just under half a second.

"It wasn't the simplest of days," Rins remarked. "The morning went fairly well. I was feeling alright, especially given that I hadn't ridden here since last year."

"The afternoon session proved to be quite challenging. We opted for the soft front tire, which caused significant difficulties due to the elevated track temperatures."

"We switched to the hard front tire that we used in the first practice session, and I immediately felt more at ease and confident. However, there was still a significant gap. To clarify, changing to the hard front tire didn't result in a 0.5-0.6 second improvement."

Rins trailed Quartararo during a timed assault, highlighting problems with his braking.

"The timed laps were really challenging for me. I rode alongside Fabio for my second set of tires. He was performing quite well, and the difference was obvious," Rins explained. "I can't bring the bike to a stop. I'm overshooting in every braking zone, particularly in the first and third corners."

He expressed that he feels challenged with the bike's front end. "Take Corner 3, for instance; I apply the brakes at the same spot as Fabio," he noted. "Fabio serves as my sole benchmark since we both ride the Yamaha."

"Compared to him, when we apply the brakes at the same spot, I experience significant front-end motion, such as locking and bouncing. This has been happening in numerous races."

When questioned about whether there is any technical distinction between the M1 models that could explain the variations in braking performance, Rins disclosed that he had reverted to using the 'standard' chassis.

"We're using a different chassis. At Phillip Island, we chose to return to the standard version since it's the one I've competed with the most," Rins explained.

Fabio's modification and the chassis I used for two previous races felt decent to me. However, since I have more familiarity with the other chassis, we chose to revert to it.

Certainly, for Saturday, I plan to switch back to the chassis that Fabio is using, the one we received in Misano, so our bikes will be more alike.

"I want to avoid mirroring Fabio's setup since our riding techniques differ. However, the bikes will at least have similar specifications."

Rins also verified that he had tested the newest iteration of Yamaha’s Ducati-inspired ride-height system. This system, which operates automatically, is engaged by pressing a button while entering a corner and then automatically lowers itself upon exiting.

In the first practice session, I tested it extensively. It performed well, but I prefer the manual option as it feels more comfortable to me, he remarked.

To put it differently, Rins continues to favor having complete authority over the timing of lowering the rear when exiting.

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Results from Saturday's practice session at the Thai MotoGP in Buriram, marking the 18th round of the 2024 World Championship series.

* Beginner

Records from the Official Buriram MotoGP:

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Fastest lap: Marc Marquez completed it in 1 minute and 29.165 seconds in 2024.

Quickest lap in the race: Marco Bezzecchi completed it in 1 minute and 30.896 seconds in 2023.

Marc Marquez leads the timing charts in the last practice session for the 2024 Thai MotoGP in Buriram.

Franco Morbidelli, Francesco Bagnaia, and Jorge Martin secured the top four positions, all riding Ducati bikes, while Pedro Acosta was the leading rider for KTM.

Because of the increased heat and pressure experienced by the tires, Buriram is one of the locations where Michelin opts for rear tires with a more rigid structure.

Marc Marquez started the session using fresh hard tires on both the front and rear. Towards the end, he changed to a worn hard tire at the front and a worn medium tire at the rear.

This morning, the preferred choice for tires was a hard compound on the front and a medium compound

Miguel Oliveira remains out of action due to fractures in his right wrist sustained at Mandalika, with Aprilia test rider Lorenzo Savadori stepping in for him at Trackhouse.

The first qualifying session is set to start for those riders who didn't make it into the top ten on Friday afternoon.

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2024 Thai MotoGP, Buriram – Complete Results from Qualifying

Here are the comprehensive results from the qualifying session along with the starting grid for the Saturday Sprint and the main race on Sunday at the Thai MotoGP in Buriram, which is the 18th round out of 20 in the 2024 world championship series.

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Records from the Official MotoGP Event in Buriram:

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Fastest lap time was achieved by Marc Marquez, clocking in at 1 minute and 29.165 seconds

Quickest lap time in the race: Marco Bezzecchi completed it in 1 minute and 30.896 seconds (2023).

Francesco Bagnaia secures the top starting spot for the 2024 Thai MotoGP, setting a new lap record at Buriram. Meanwhile, his championship competitor Jorge Martin and Marc Marquez, who was fastest in practice, both suffer crashes during the Qualifying session.

Martin held onto a front-row position, trailing Enea Bastianini, while Marquez found himself in fifth position, sandwiched between Marco Bezzecchi and a strong performance by Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo.

Because of the increased heat and pressure on the tires, Buriram is one of the locations where Michelin opts for its more robust rear tire construction.

Miguel Oliveira remains unable to compete due to fractures in his right wrist sustained in Mandalika, and Aprilia test rider Lorenzo Savadori has taken his place at Trackhouse.

The Buriram Sprint race commences at 3 p.m. local time.

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Fabio Quartararo: Yamaha anticipates introducing a new MotoGP engine variant "prior to this season's conclusion"

"Regarding the concessions, our focus isn't on 2025…"

It appears that Yamaha's MotoGP motorcycle is set to receive an updated engine design before the season concludes. However, for this weekend's race in Thailand, Fabio Quartararo will continue to deal with the same lack of straight-line speed that has been a challenge in the previous competitions.

Quartararo has previously demonstrated impressive performance in Thailand, especially memorable in 2019 when he fiercely competed against Marc Marquez up to the very last corner for the win, a race which concluded with Marquez securing his sixth championship title in the premier class.

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The rider from France is anticipating a solid showing this weekend, particularly in the qualifying rounds.

"He believes the track might actually work in their favor," he mentioned, "particularly for a single lap. Thus, the objective starting tomorrow afternoon is to make it into Q2 and aim for a successful outcome."

Quartararo mentioned that the more robust rear tire provided by Michelin for the Thailand race, designed to handle the tropical heat and the numerous straight, intense acceleration areas of the Buriram circuit, advantages Yamaha as it limits the capabilities of the competing motorcycles.

"He mentioned that the alternate tire doesn't make a significant difference for them."

"However, my belief is that the others possess lower potential with this tire. Therefore, this aspect seems crucial to consider."

"We're aware that our hold, particularly the acceleration and maximum velocity on this circuit, falls short. However, there are other aspects I believe we can work on to achieve speed."

The challenges Yamaha faces with maximum velocity in MotoGP are well-known, and at present, Quartararo opts for the least powerful engine variant, as it suits his preference.

He also mentioned that the YZR-M1 might receive an updated engine version before the season concludes.

"Quartararo mentioned that although it's his preferred engine, it's also the least quick."

"Regrettably, there are numerous sections we're overlooking."

"I believe that by the season's end, we'll introduce a new specification for our engine which will offer enhanced top speed. This upgrade is crucial as we're currently falling behind in terms of straight-line speed."

Quartararo clarified that the engine enhancement wasn’t solely aimed at the 2025 perspective.

"He emphasized a unique mindset, explaining that when it comes to making improvements, their focus isn't on the year 2025; instead, they are constantly striving to enhance the bike's performance."

"This year, we've gone through four different engine specifications and four chassis updates, and I believe we're expecting another one before we get to Valencia."

"We don't actually possess a specific '2025' model of bicycle. The one we're currently utilizing is gradually improving through incremental changes, and that's what I'm referring to."

"I believe the Valencia trial is going to be crucial due to the introduction of some new elements, alongside the preseason examination featuring four motorcycles, known as the Shakedown."

"There are numerous days of trials ahead of us, which I believe will play a crucial role in helping us advance."

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Top MotoGP competitors endorse Andrea Iannone's potential return: “It will be nice”

Key MotoGP racers support the idea of Andrea Iannone making a comeback

Top contenders in the 2024 MotoGP season have expressed their support for the increasingly widespread speculation that Andrea Iannone is set to return to the circuit with VR46 during the Malaysian race.

Fabio Di Giannantonio is set to conclude his racing season after this weekend's Thailand Grand Prix, as he plans to undergo surgery for a shoulder dislocation he suffered in Austria. Amidst this, rumors are circulating that Iannone is on the verge of being selected to fill in for him, at least for the Malaysia race.

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Between 2013 and 2019, Iannone competed in the MotoGP championship, representing teams such as Ducati, Suzuki, and Aprilia. His career was interrupted when he received a four-year suspension for doping offenses, effective retrospectively from the 2019 Malaysian Grand Prix weekend.

Following the end of his suspension, just in time for the 2024 racing campaign, Iannone landed a spot on the GoEleven Ducati team in the World Superbike championship and achieved a win at the Aragon circuit.

Reports of Iannone's potential return to the sport have sparked debate due to his previous conviction for using a prohibited anabolic steroid.

However, Jorge Martin, who is currently leading the championship, expressed his enthusiasm about the 2016 Austrian Grand Prix victor returning to compete.

"Martin expressed his pleasure at seeing him return to MotoGP racing following his suspension, mentioning that it was a positive development after the challenges he faced due to the doping suspension Iannone received when he was unable to provide a convincing defense."

"After that, he progressed to Superbikes, where he secured a victory. His performance has been impressive."

"I recall during the World Ducati Week, he managed to outpace me by a full second.

"Thus, perhaps he retains his speed and it remains to be seen if he can still cycle. However, I believe this presents an excellent chance to show everyone that he remains powerful."

A number of individuals are being considered for the VR46 Ducati vacancy, among them is Nicolo Bulega, who secured second place in the 2024 World Superbike Championship.

Bulega, formerly associated with the VR46 Academy, is favored by Francesco Bagnaia, though the world champion thinks Iannone will see it more as an enjoyable opportunity.

"I was looking forward to seeing Bulega ride this motorcycle, as I believe you should seize the opportunity to test a MotoGP bike whenever it's presented," he commented.

"I believe Iannone will have a great time with us. Certainly, Malaysia presents a challenging track for riding."

"Last season, we witnessed what [Alvaro] Bautista accomplished. However, I believe he's going to have a good time. He's already familiar with MotoGP bikes and he'll likely see it as an opportunity for enjoyment."

Bautista's guest entry in the Malaysian Grand Prix last season was a reward for clinching the WSBK title. However, due to an injury, he faced difficulties and finished 17th in the main event.

Marc Marquez, who had memorable contests with Iannone in Moto2, commented: "For me, it would be great to witness Iannone's presence because we had an enjoyable competition."

"Undoubtedly, it's incredibly challenging to immediately excel in a single MotoGP race and then maintain a high level of performance four years down the line."

"Perhaps he's akin to a superhero, capable of accomplishing it due to his exceptional skill. It would be delightful, and I believe the method is somewhat of a gift."

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Marc Marquez notes Bagnaia and Martin are merely enduring in the MotoGP championship struggle.

"I recall the sensations that come with being in such a spot."

Marc Marquez believes that Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin are currently not having a pleasant time amidst the 2024 MotoGP championship struggle, but are instead facing hardship.

Prior to the Thailand Grand Prix taking place this weekend, Martin is ahead of Bagnaia by a margin of 20 points.

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With only three races remaining, including the one in Thailand, the fate of the world championship might be determined by the results of the upcoming Malaysian GP next week, contingent on the events in Buriram.

Marquez secured his most recent of six top-tier championships in Thailand back in 2019 and is familiar with the emotions and pressures Bagnaia and Martin are currently facing.

"Indeed, it's a challenging scenario for the pair, and I recall from long ago the emotions one experiences in such circumstances," he expressed on Thursday in Thailand.

"You're not having fun, you're merely enduring, because in three races, you'll find out if you're the world champion or not."

"Besides, they are in excellent condition and incredibly quick."

Certainly, Martin has a slight edge. To regain that edge, Pecco might have to embrace a bit more risk, yet Pecco is no stranger to victory, being a two-time world champion.

"Martin has his chances, so let's observe."

In the previous race in Australia, Marquez managed to close the gap on Martin by five points following an exciting showdown at Phillip Island, where he emerged victorious. The Gresini team's racer is considered a potential dark horse in affecting the championship's final standings, albeit indirectly.

He mentions that he hasn't discussed his approach to this scenario with Ducati, but he acknowledges that the impact of his performance on the championship outcome is beyond his control.

"Indeed, I believe my experience equips me well to handle the situation," he further stated.

"Ultimately, whether it's competing for the world title or battling against a fellow competitor, you never initiate an overtaking maneuver with the intention of colliding with the other."

"Consistently, the goal is to steer clear of this path. However, reflecting on the events in Australia, should the situation require me to summon strength and have faith in my abilities, I am prepared to take that step."

"I'm striving for the third spot in the championship standings. While it's not the top position, it holds significant value to me."

"Certainly, I'll give it my all, ensuring to always be cautious, just as we have done with other riders in different circumstances.

"Striking another cyclist is never the goal, yet occasionally it's beyond your control."

"Back in 2015, I wasn't playing it safe; I was, in a manner of speaking, taking points away from someone else. It's beyond my control; I'm committed to giving it my all."

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Augusto Fernandez expresses discomfort with carbon fibre chassis

He admits, "It feels odd… However, I'm not throwing in the towel."

With only three races remaining in what is currently his last season in MotoGP, Augusto Fernandez has not yet achieved the level of success he did in his first year.

Crucially, the individual from Spain has always felt uneasy.

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The Tech3 competitor from GASGAS secured a fourth-place finish at the Le Mans race, contributing to his three top-ten placements and a total of 71 points in the previous season.

As of this year, Fernandez has only managed to secure 21 points, with his highest finish being eleventh. By the middle of June, he found himself without a ride for 2025, following the moves of Enea Bastianini and Maverick Vinales.

Fernandez, rumored to be considering a test riding contract with Yamaha, states that his primary objective is to conclude the season with positive sensations while riding the bike.

"Last year went well for us here. Once more, I'm uncertain about what this year holds, as is the case with every race," Fernandez remarked on Thursday in Buriram.

"Last year, I managed to secure a position in the top 10 by Friday, advancing straight to Q2, though the race didn't go as planned due to some problems. Despite that, my overall feeling about the performance wasn't too negative."

"Alright, let's take a look. We're putting in a lot of effort to end the season on a high note. I'm not keen on ending the season on the same low note that has characterized it so far."

With the world championship finale only weeks ahead, Fernandez mentioned that they still lack a foundational setup.

"He mentioned, "We're continuously evolving and experimenting. For the upcoming weekend, we've formulated a plan. I've spent considerable time pondering and analyzing how to capture the right sensation, as well as examining the performance of other KTMs and my previous year's bike.

"I'm not sure, just experimenting with everything! I refuse to lose hope of capturing that sensation, performing well, and achieving the speed I'm capable of. There are three circuits I enjoy, so we'll see what happens."

The primary modification to the 2024 RC16 involved transitioning from a steel trellis structure to a carbon fiber frame, a development first introduced by the official team in the closing months of the previous year.

Pedro Acosta, who is in his first year with Fernandez's team, has impressively secured four grand prix podium finishes this season, alongside an additional podium placement achieved by Brad Binder.

In response to a question about whether he has ever felt as at ease on the carbon fibre as he did in the previous season, Fernandez stated, "Never. I never experienced that sensation."

The ex-Moto2 global champion noted that his challenges appear to be linked to the rear chassis's flexibility.

"It's not exactly an issue of traction, yet in a way it is – that's my sensation, especially regarding the connection with the rear. It's not about steadiness, rather it feels like there's a certain suppleness. It's an odd sensation."

"Indeed, it's been quite challenging. However, three riders have managed to achieve high speeds this season, with one standing out more than the rest. Ultimately, they've all outperformed me."

"As I've mentioned, I'm not one to quit. With three races left, we'll continue to strive."

As Binder and Acosta vie for the fifth spot in the global championship rankings, Binder's teammate, Jack Miller, holds the 14th position, having achieved a top finish of fifth.

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Fabio Di Giannantonio announces date for end-of-season MotoGP surgery

VR46 competitor prepares for his final weekend in 2024 in Thailand

VR46 Ducati MotoGP competitor Fabio Di Giannantonio has disclosed the timing for his upcoming surgery to address a dislocated left shoulder he suffered earlier in the season, which will conclude his racing year.

The individual, who had previously won a grand prix, suffered a shoulder dislocation during the Austrian Grand Prix in August and had been considering undergoing surgery for this issue for a while.

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Before the Australian Grand Prix, Di Giannantonio revealed his plans to conclude his 2024 season following the upcoming Thai Grand Prix. This decision was made to allow him time for surgery and sufficient recovery to start testing the GP25 in February.

On Thursday in Buriram, he disclosed the date of his upcoming surgery.

"He mentioned, 'This upcoming Saturday, I plan to undergo shoulder surgery.'"

"Until then, I'll make the best of, let's call it, this unexpected break, despite my strong desire to have been in Malaysia."

"However, currently, I would prefer to avoid watching races as they bring me sadness."

"However, I'm quite confident that it will upset my girlfriend since we're going to watch every training session, every qualification, every race, and every category."

"It seems like we're in for another weekend of tuning into motorsport, reminiscent of past times."

For the first time in his Grand Prix career, Di Giannantonio had to sit out races because of an injury, starting with this year's Austrian Grand Prix. This brought him a sense of disappointment, especially since he had to conclude his 2024 season post-Thailand, just when he was nearing his season's first podium finish in Australia.

"Definitely, we had a fantastic weekend at Phillip Island," he remarked.

"It's been incredible to return to the form we demonstrated before the incident in Austria this year."

"I'm really thrilled and satisfied with this recent rebound. However, there's a touch of melancholy right now since it's unprecedented for me to wrap up the season prematurely or to sit out some races due to an injury or similar issues in my career."

"It's an odd sensation, yet I'm entirely driven to excel this weekend."

"I aim to deliver the best possible outcome for the team and ensure I conclude the season on a positive note.

"Honestly, ending the season on the podium would be incredible, especially since I've felt its absence somewhat this year."

There have been no new developments regarding who will replace Di Giannantonio at the VR46 team for the rest of the 2024 season. Speculation is growing that Andrea Iannone might be returning to the scene.

The racer who triumphed at the 2016 Austrian GP saw his MotoGP career come to a halt at the close of 2019 after being convicted of doping, resulting in a four-year ban from competing.

The prohibition ended this year, enabling him to compete in the World Superbikes with GoEleven riding a Ducati, where he secured a victory in one of the races.

However, Di Giannantonio refrained from engaging in any rumors and maintains that no decisions have been made, emphasizing that VR46 assured him he would be the first to be informed once his successor was determined.

"Definitely, there's a lot of speculation, mainly because it would be welcome news," he stated.

"However, currently, I'm in the dark about the situation because the team assured me I would be the first to be informed, yet as of now, I remain uninformed."

"I'm unsure about who I'd like to see riding the motorcycle. Truly, from a motorcyclist's perspective, you're always going to be hesitant to let another rider use your motorcycle since it's yours, your pride and joy."

"Moreover, if there is a need to substitute a rider, it benefits both the team and its sponsors to ensure there is a motorcycle racing on the circuit."

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Brad Binder States KTM MotoGP Efforts Unaffected Despite Pierer Mobility Group Challenges

Brad Binder speaks out on recent shifts within Pierer Mobility Group

KTM MotoGP competitor Brad Binder has stated that despite the recent reduction in the Pierer Mobility Group's board of directors, operations within the project are proceeding without any changes.

This week, it was revealed by an Austrian company that it had dismissed four out of its six board members, attributing the action to PMG's grim financial projections. The firm cites the economic downturn in Germany and the escalating cost of living in the USA as the main reasons for this decision.

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This situation has raised queries regarding PMG's racing initiative, yet the company has maintained that its operations will remain unimpacted.

In response to inquiries about his perspective, Binder commented on Thursday before the Thai Grand Prix, stating, "From my point of view, it appears everything is proceeding as usual."

"The only action I can take is to attempt to secure victories in some competitions."

"It seems that success on Sunday translates to sales on Monday. That's my fresh incentive now, and we'll see how it unfolds."

PMG's financial struggles follow a challenging year in MotoGP, where the brand has not secured a single race victory in 2024, with only three rounds left.

Currently holding the second position in the constructors’ championship, it trails behind the leading Ducati by a significant margin of 326 points in the rankings.

In the standings for riders, Binder holds the top spot in fifth place, trailing the fourth position by 232 points, and has not achieved a podium finish since the season's first race in Qatar.

He finds himself in a close contest for fifth place with KTM newcomer Pedro Acosta, who trails the South African by 11 points after securing four grand prix podium finishes this year.

In response to a question about the significance of outperforming Acosta in this year's rankings, Binder stated, "It's quite straightforward for me."

"Actually, it's not only about me but also about the whole team. None of us are happy with the positions we're ending up in every weekend."

"Our aim is to climb higher in the rankings, and I believe we should continue to concentrate on our performance on the track, making the most of every lap.

"By taking this approach, we can anticipate improved outcomes over the weekend, leading to a positive impact on the championship and everything else will naturally follow suit."

"Thus, I believe concentrating on the task at hand is essential, and naturally, if I perform well, everything else will fall into place."

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Francesco Bagnaia remains calm regarding MotoGP rankings: "20 points isn't a significant margin"

The reigning champion discusses championship prospects with three races left

Francesco Bagnaia remains undeterred by his 20-point shortfall behind Jorge Martin in the 2024 MotoGP championship race, considering it "not a significant margin" these days.

Following his third-place finish after Martin in Australia last weekend, Martin has now extended his lead over Bagnaia to 20 points, with just three rounds left starting with the Thai Grand Prix.

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The upcoming weekend in Buriram could be pivotal for Martin, especially considering his impressive performance at last year's Thai GP, which was among his best. This sets the stage for him potentially heading to Malaysia the following week with a chance to clinch the 2024 championship title for the first time.

However, Bagnaia, who overcame a 91-point shortfall to clinch the 2022 championship, views the present 20-point difference as manageable in today's fast-paced racing environment.

"When questioned about his position as the pursuer in the rankings during Thursday's event in Buriram, he started with, 'It's not the same.'"

"Three years back, compared to arriving at the final three races with a 20-point deficit, the situation now is less critical, as each weekend presents an opportunity to gain an additional 12 points."

"Thus, the situation is somewhat unique. It appears we're witnessing a scenario where it's simple to both acquire and forfeit a significant amount."

"Thus, what was considered a significant difference three years ago is no longer viewed as a wide margin, with a 20-point gap now seen as relatively

"Regardless, it's a matter of 20 points that I need to secure. Winning requires going the extra mile."

He stated, “I have the same feeling as always. This marks the fourth consecutive season that I am competing for the championship.

"Indeed, in 2021, I found myself trailing with just three races remaining, and over the past two seasons, I consistently found myself either leading or lagging behind."

"Thus, my approach remains unchanged, focusing on thorough weekend preparation.

"The stress is consistent whether you're in charge or in pursuit; it's just the stakes that shift slightly. However, I believe my approach will remain unchanged as usual."

Anticipating an important Thai Grand Prix, Martin expressed, "Certainly, I'm pleased to still be in contention for the championship.

"I'm currently doing well; we've just returned from Indonesia, Japan, and Australia, which were all truly exceptional.

"Australia was fantastic. My aim was to secure a victory, but it proved to be quite challenging. However, I'm optimistic about this upcoming race."

"Definitely, it's going to be extremely challenging and hot. I believe Marc and Pecco are going to be quite formidable competitors. So, I'm preparing myself for a very demanding weekend."

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Does a duel for the championship benefit MotoGP?

Racers weigh in on the showdown between Bagnaia and Martin

In the 2024 MotoGP championship race, although four racers still have a chance to win based on the numbers, Jorge Martin and Francesco Bagnaia are seen as the real frontrunners.

Before the Thai Grand Prix in Buriram this weekend, Martin is ahead of Bagnaia by 20 points in the championship race, with only three rounds remaining.

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For the second consecutive year, Bagnaia and Martin are competing against each other for the championship.

Throughout the initial 17 races, the competition between the two has seen its ups and downs, with Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo viewing the race in Thailand as crucial for both competitors.

"To tell you the truth, I'm completely out of the loop regarding what's going on, since they are two competitors whom we haven't been paying attention to, judging by their lap times and the speed they're maintaining," he expressed on Thursday at Buriram.

"Our focus is primarily on the top five, as they consistently rank within the top three."

"Thus, we have two formidable competitors who have battled for the title in consecutive years."

Martin is ahead by 20 points, yet there are still three races remaining where over 100 points can be earned.

"Thus, it appears we're at a point where it's difficult to make any definitive statements. It seems this race holds significant importance for both competitors."

Initially, it seemed like the season would feature a fierce competition among four riders: Martin, Bagnaia, Marc Marquez, and Enea Bastianini. However, as events have unfolded, it's now turning into a repeat of the 2023 contest.

However, Franco Morbidelli, who is on the same Pramac team as Martin, doesn't perceive a problem with the situation. He believes that a direct competition among the top riders is, in fact, a more favorable scenario for MotoGP.

"Would adding more competitors make the race more exciting?" Morbidelli pondered. "It's hard to say, as the one-on-one battles tend to be the most thrilling. Pecco and Jorge have indeed been top contenders both this year and the previous one."

"Thus, they are worthy of their struggle and both merit the title, making it an exciting contest for the fans to witness."

"Additionally, due to the presence of competitors, notably Marc and Enea, who are capable of joining the fray.

"I also prefer to be positioned centrally, and recently, I've succeeded in achieving a central position during the initial laps of the race."

"In my opinion, the direct confrontation is the ultimate showdown. It's definitely more thrilling for MotoGP, without a doubt superior to having a predetermined winner, and even surpasses the excitement of four riders vying for the title, because nothing beats the intensity of a one-on-one battle."

Alex Marquez presented a fascinating theory suggesting that in a rider market lacking significant movement or bike exchanges, such as the one anticipated for 2025, there won't be substantial shifts in the competition for the championship title.

"When questioned about whether a duel for the championship between two competitors was beneficial for MotoGP, the Gresini racer affirmed, 'I believe so.'"

"It's to be expected. Given that they're both riding the top bike available in the competition, it's natural for both riders to progress."

"The upcoming year promises potential shifts as one rider is switching brands, alongside several others who are also transitioning between manufacturers and teams."

"Thus, it's going to change, yet given our current two-year agreement, I believe a trend will emerge."

"If we see similar progress as this year over the next two years, it could significantly alter the championship landscape. However, without such movement, the championship scene is unlikely to change much from one year to the next."

Aleix Espargaro opines that the competition “would improve” with the inclusion of additional riders, although he acknowledges that a direct duel is preferable to a single dominant victor.

"The Aprilia rider expressed, "I believe it's quite alright."

"Clearly, having a more competitive championship would be ideal, but I believe I favor this situation over having a predetermined winner even before the season begins."

"Clearly, having three or four individuals vying for the championship adds intrigue, but I believe it's quite challenging."

"Pecco and Martin have significantly outperformed others this year, making them truly deserving."

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2024 Thai MotoGP: A Summary of Friday's Practice Sessions

Review the practice sessions from Friday at the 2024 Thai MotoGP.

Heading into the weekend's races in Thailand, with only three rounds remaining, Jorge Martin is ahead by 20 points in the championship standings over the current champion, Francesco Bagnaia.

Marco Bezzecchi recorded the quickest time during Friday's initial practice session.

Owing to the high temperatures and the pressure exerted on the tyres, Buriram is one of the locations where Michelin opts for its more rigid rear tyre designs.

The forecast predicts high temperatures, dampness, and dry conditions for Friday and Saturday, followed by the possibility of thunderstorms on Sunday.

Training starts at 3pm (9am in the UK).

This concludes our live updates for today, however, stay tuned to Crash.net this Friday for continuous updates and the most recent developments from the Buriram paddock.

Tune back in with us on Saturday, starting at 4:10am BST, for the last practice session and the qualifying rounds

Practice Summary

2024 Thai MotoGP, Buriram – Results from Friday's Practice Session

Finish Line Report

The session concludes with Marquez leading, followed closely by Martin, Bastianini, and Bagnaia.

I

Marc Marquez returns to the lead, clocking a time of 1 minute and 29.165 seconds.

The majority have returned to the pit lane. Given the brief nature of the lap at Buriram, there's an opportunity to complete multiple runs. There's just over five minutes remaining.

Martin just set a new record time for the lap.

However, Martin counters with an impressive circuit time of 1 minute and 29.275 seconds.

Vinales has now overtaken Martin, posting a time of 1 minute and 29.506 seconds.

Martin secures the lead position with an impressive lap time of 1 minute and 29.543 seconds. What a remarkable performance!

Quartararo has now clocked the quickest time at 1 minute and 29.822 seconds!

Acosta has achieved the quickest time with a 1m29.840s.

Binder improves his pace, clocking in at 1 minute and 29.949 seconds.

Binder takes the lead using a fresh medium rear tire, clocking in at 1 minute and 30.023 seconds.

Update on the Order

With only 15 minutes remaining in the Practice session, we are on the verge of entering the time attack stage. Here’s how the top 10 stands as of now:

Jack Miller climbs to the fifth position after switching to a new soft front and medium rear tire, with just under 20 minutes remaining.

Bagnaia has returned to the pitlane following a short stint. He remains dissatisfied with the GP24.

Currently, in Practice, it feels somewhat nostalgic with a Yamaha ranking within the top three and a Honda making it into the top five.

This weekend presents a favorable chance for Japanese bike makers. Tracks with frequent stops and starts usually don't favor these motorcycles, but as previously noted, the harder rear tire levels the playing field by not offering the usual significant grip benefit to competitors.

Zarco has now moved into fifth place on another LCR Honda, utilizing new medium tires as well.

Nakagami makes a great lap, moving up to sixth place with a fresh medium rear tire.

Trouble is brewing in Bagnaia's pit as well. Following modifications by Ducati that proved unsuccessful during Saturday's session in Australia the previous weekend, the team is reverting to the original bike Bagnaia began the session with.

Challenging day for the championship contenders thus far.

Martin appears not entirely at ease with his GP24, showing significant rear movement when exiting Turn 1 recently. This could be partly due to his use of a heavily worn hard rear tire.

Aprilia has announced that Aleix Espargaro has prematurely concluded his session.

He sustained injuries during FP1. More information on his involvement for the rest of the weekend will be provided later.

Fabio Di Giannantonio is participating in his last weekend of the year before undergoing shoulder surgery.

He has recently moved into the 10th position in the rankings, riding on his VR46 Ducati.

Update on the standings:

Midway into the practice session, here are the leading 10 participants:

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