Francesco Bagnaia: “Our opportunity is still alive, and we will fight with all our might until the last moment.”

Is it possible for Francesco Bagnaia to achieve the most significant comeback in a title race in MotoGP history?

Throughout the MotoGP era, there have been only two instances, in the years 2006 and 2015, where the rider who was at the top of the world championship rankings before the final race of the season did not end up securing

In both instances, Valentino Rossi experienced the championship slipping from his grasp, as he let go of an 8-point lead to Nicky Hayden in 2006 and a 7-point lead to Jorge Lorenzo in 2015.

This weekend, Francesco Bagnaia, a protégé of Rossi's VR46 Academy, faces a significant challenge in trying to prevent Jorge Martin from winning the 2024 title.

Ducati's reigning two-time champion heads into the final race in Barcelona trailing the Pramac racer, Martin, by 24 points. With only 37 points left to be won—12 from the Sprint and 25 from the Grand Prix—the competition remains fierce.

With ten grand prix victories this year compared to Martin's three, Bagnaia would claim the championship in the event of a tie-breaker.

If Martin secures a win in the Sprint, it would be sufficient for him to clinch the world championship title. Meanwhile, Bagnaia's main task is to ensure that the competition continues until the season's last day.

Bagnaia expressed his contentment with the choice to compete in the season's final Grand Prix in Barcelona rather than Valencia.

"The situation is tragic, and we sincerely wish that the funds raised from this event will offer significant assistance to those impacted by the floods."

Bagnaia emphasized that their team plans to tackle the weekend in their typical manner. He acknowledged that they still have an opportunity, and although it will be challenging, they are committed to giving it their all until the last moment.

"No matter the result, it's a privilege to be competing in the season's last race, vying for the world championship. I'm eager to return to the track!"

As Bagnaia finds that merely securing victories isn't sufficient anymore, discussions around strategy are expected to become a major focus. The possibility of Martin transferring the top spot from Ducati to Aprilia in the upcoming season adds even more intrigue to the situation.

Bagnaia has stated that he will not use slow-riding strategies to involve other competitors, although such tactics have been used previously. Notably, in 2013, Jorge Lorenzo deliberately slowed the pace to help eliminate Marc Marquez's 13-point lead.

During that event, Dani Pedrosa excelled as a supportive team-mate by aggressively challenging Lorenzo, which pushed Lorenzo to increase his speed. This strategic move allowed Pedrosa to secure a victory, closing the gap to just four points behind Marquez.

This weekend, the assistance of team-mates might prove crucial once more, as Bagnaia is counting on Enea Bastianini to perform well. Additionally, Bagnaia hinted that he might aid fellow competitors by providing a slipstream during practice and qualifying sessions.

Among the possible contenders for a podium finish this weekend are Bastianini, Marc Marquez, Aleix Espargaro, who won the 2024 Barcelona Sprint for Aprilia, and Pedro Acosta from KTM.

On the other hand, Bastianini is focused on competing with Marquez for the third spot in the world championship standings. Meanwhile, Ducati has limited influence over him as he is set to move to KTM next season.

Bastianini expressed his eagerness to make amends at Montmelo, a track where he struggled earlier in the year. During the spring race, he ended up in 18th place, missing out on points after receiving penalties for not taking a Long Lap and subsequently a Ride Through.

"I've consistently been quick on this track, but the penalty of long laps I got due to my collision with Alex Márquez in the previous race clearly impacted how I performed."

"We're currently in fourth place, trailing Marc Márquez by just a single point. Our aim is to put in maximum effort to earn a position on the World Championship podium."

Apart from Bastianini, Bagnaia has the support of his VR46 Academy peers, though Franco Morbidelli, who is a teammate of Martin, might be an exception.

Ultimately, with Bagnaia and Martin frequently outperforming their competitors, as demonstrated at their recent performance in Sepang, the Italian racer could benefit from an unexpected twist or unpredictable factor, which the weather in Barcelona might offer.

Due to the last-minute cancellation of the event in Valencia, the temperatures in autumn are likely to be about half of the mid-20s Celsius that were recorded during the weekend in Catalunya this past May.

Consequently, Michelin has introduced a total of seven distinct slick tire choices, although there is still a possibility of rain.

Given that there's minimal benefit in gearing up for the last laps on Sunday if the championship is already out of reach by Saturday, it's probable that Bagnaia will focus more on refining his time attacks this weekend.

By adopting a strategy similar to his Sepang tactic, where he used a fresh soft tire towards the conclusion of FP1, he could maintain pressure on Martin right from the beginning of the final contest.

For two decades, Peter has been present in the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is currently leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure and the injury challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

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Francesco Bagnaia: "Our opportunity remains, and we'll fight with full effort until the last moment."

Is Francesco Bagnaia capable of achieving the most remarkable comeback in MotoGP title history?

In the history of MotoGP, there have been only two instances, in the years 2006 and 2015, where the rider at the top of the championship standings before the final race did not secure the championship title.

In two separate instances, Valentino Rossi experienced the disappointment of losing the championship, first in 2006 when Nicky Hayden overcame his 8-point lead, and again in 2015 when Jorge Lorenzo surpassed his 7-point advantage.

This weekend, Francesco Bagnaia, a protégé from Rossi's VR46 Academy, must pull off an even greater surprise to prevent Jorge Martin from claiming the 2024 title.

The reigning double champion from Ducati enters the final race in Barcelona trailing the Pramac rider, Martin, by 24 points. With only 37 points available in total—12 from the Sprint and 25 from the Grand Prix—the competition remains fierce.

With ten grand prix victories this year, compared to Martin's three, Bagnaia would secure the championship on a tie-breaker.

However, if Martin secures a win in the Sprint, it would suffice to clinch the world championship title. Bagnaia's primary significant hurdle will be to extend the competition's outcome to the very last day of the season.

Bagnaia expressed his satisfaction with the choice to participate in the final Grand Prix of the season in Barcelona rather than Valencia.

The incident was dreadful, and we sincerely wish that the funds raised from this event will offer significant assistance to the flood victims.

Bagnaia emphasized that their weekend plans remain unchanged. He stated, "We still have an opportunity, and although it won't be easy, we are committed to putting in our maximum effort until the last moment."

"No matter how it ends, it's a privilege to compete in the season's final race and contend for the world championship. I'm eager to return to the track!"

With race victories no longer satisfying Bagnaia's ambitions, the focus on strategy is expected to dominate discussions. The possibility of Martin transferring the number one spot from Ducati to Aprilia in the upcoming season adds an extra layer of intrigue.

Bagnaia has stated that he will not use slow-riding strategies to involve other competitors in the race, although this has happened in the past. A notable instance is when Jorge Lorenzo deliberately slowed down the pack in 2013 in an attempt to reduce Marc Marquez's lead of 13 points.

During that event, Dani Pedrosa excelled as a supportive team member by challenging Lorenzo, compelling him to increase his speed. This strategic move allowed Pedrosa to clinch the win, leaving him only four points behind Marquez.

This weekend, the involvement of teammates might prove crucial once more. Bagnaia is counting on Enea Bastianini to elevate his performance and hinted that he might assist fellow riders by providing a slipstream during practice and qualifying sessions.

Possible contenders for the podium this weekend include Bastianini, Marc Marquez, Aleix Espargaro, who won the 2024 Barcelona Sprint for Aprilia, and Pedro Acosta from KTM.

Meanwhile, Bastianini is focused on his battle with Marquez for the third spot in the world championship standings. At the same time, Ducati has limited influence over him as he is set to move to KTM for the next season.

Bastianini expressed that coming back to Montmelo after the spring race offers him an opportunity to make amends. In May, he ended up in 18th place and failed to score points because he received a post-race penalty for not complying with a Long Lap requirement, followed by a Ride Through penalty.

"I've typically been quick on this track, but the extended laps I had to complete following my collision with Alex Márquez in the previous race certainly impacted how well I performed."

"We currently hold the fourth position in the rankings, trailing Marc Márquez by just a single point. Our goal is to put forth our best effort to ensure a place on the podium for the World Championship."

Apart from Bastianini, Bagnaia has the support of his VR46 Academy colleagues, though Franco Morbidelli, who is Martin’s teammate, might be an exception.

Ultimately, when Bagnaia and Martin frequently outperform the competition, as they did recently in Sepang, the Italian rider requires a surprising turn of events or some unpredictability, which the weather in Barcelona could potentially bring.

In a sudden change following the cancellation of the Valencia event, it is likely that the autumn temperatures will be approximately half of the mid-20s Celsius that were recorded during the Catalunya weekend in May.

Consequently, Michelin is providing as many as seven distinct slick tire choices, even though there is still a chance of rain.

Given that there's not much advantage in getting ready for the final laps on Sunday if the championship is already out of reach by Saturday, Bagnaia is expected to focus more on refining his time attack strategies during this weekend.

By employing the same strategy he used in Sepang, which involves using a fresh soft tire towards the end of the first practice session, he would maintain pressure on Martin right from the beginning of the competition.

For two decades, Peter has been a presence in the paddock, witnessing the career of Valentino Rossi from start to finish. He is closely following the developments surrounding Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's struggles with injuries.

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Jack Miller experienced a terrifying incident at Sepang where he was "pulled into the tire" by his midsection. He expressed feeling "incredibly fortunate" to have emerged from the situation unscathed.

Following a remarkable escape from a potentially serious injury during a race-stopping crash at Sepang, Jack Miller is set to make his final appearance as a KTM rider in MotoGP at the Barcelona event this weekend.

In the opening corner of the Malaysian race, a series of events involving Alex Marquez, Brad Binder, and Fabio Quartararo resulted in the Australian rider being thrown off his bike.

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Dramatic photos captured the moment when Miller became entangled in the back wheel of Quartararo's Yamaha. His helmet was twisted by the tire, and then his legs were run over by Joan Mir's Honda.

Addressing the situation publicly for the first time on Thursday, Miller stated:

"I genuinely feel fine. I'm fortunate to have come out of that situation relatively unscathed, especially after seeing pictures of my hand caught in the rear tire of Fabio's bike and Joan using my legs as a sort of double jump!"

"I consider myself fortunate to have emerged from the situation mostly unharmed."

"I experienced a severe hangover on Monday, but otherwise, things were pretty smooth. By Tuesday, I was back to cycling again. Spending a pleasant weekend at home with my family, enjoying much warmer weather than we have here, was beneficial for me."

"I'm prepared to start and aim to conclude my time with KTM on a positive note."

According to Miller, in these situations, it's a matter of "closing your eyes and wishing for a favorable outcome."

"As the saying goes, 'tuck and roll,' but judging by the photos, it seems there was more rolling involved than tucking!"

"However, you are unable to take any action. I was unaware of what the future held. I had no idea what was about to occur."

"You can really feel how adhesive those Michelin tires are. They gripped me tightly, pulling me into the tire, and then managed to yank my head back through the tire again."

"This gives you a hint of the quality of these tires, as they can lift a helmet off the ground and move it around effortlessly."

"As I mentioned earlier, it's mainly a matter of luck. I'm simply glad to be present, injury-free, and approaching the weekend with a clear mind."

"I consider myself very fortunate."

The 29-year-old emphasized that it will not be a concern for him.

"It's not a mental issue. Ultimately, I'm approaching 30 and have been involved in this since the age of four, experiencing numerous falls along the way."

"You can essentially forget about it almost immediately after it occurs. Of course, our primary focus is to continue cycling."

"It's the activity I'm passionate about. It's something I excel at, or at least somewhat proficient on certain days, you could say! Thus, it's relatively simple to set aside distractions and return to my tasks."

The final event of this weekend has been relocated on short notice from Valencia to Barcelona because of the severe flooding.

"Clearly, the circumstances are somewhat different from our usual visits. I'm dressed in two jackets and longer shorts! However, I'm excited about it; I believe the weather will add another unexpected twist, promising an intriguing weekend," Miller remarked.

"Heartbroken not to be competing in Valencia. My thoughts are with everyone impacted by the flooding. Watching the images from afar this week, it's heartbreaking to see what those families are enduring. We extend our deepest sympathies to all of them."

"Let's hope that this weekend offers 50 minutes for them to momentarily escape their current troubles and relish what promises to be an incredible weekend of racing."

"It's great to be competing again, especially in this part of the globe, close to what can be considered the heart of MotoGP and just a few hundred kilometers from where we ideally belong. It's exciting to return here, and I believe the weekend promises to be quite intriguing."

Due to the chilly weather, Michelin has introduced an extraordinary selection of seven distinct types of tires.

"There are seven tires available, but I believe not all of them are practical for use," stated Miller. "The one with the 'H' marking on the front is almost unsuitable for race conditions. During the summer, it takes about three laps for it to become effective on the left side, so I doubt it will be mounted on a rim. It's likely just a reserve option, more than anything else."

"The remaining tires appear to be in fairly decent condition. Ultimately, Valencia presents a similar challenge with numerous left-hand turns followed by right-hand ones, unlike other tracks that feature more right-hand turns leading into left-hand ones."

"I believe they have the capability to design the tire to meet our needs, so we should be fine in that area."

"They've clearly prepared various alternatives since the temperature conditions are uncertain. Despite the limited time they had, I believe they've effectively chosen a tire that they anticipate will be suitable for this track."

"We'll observe the traction conditions. Typically, the track temperatures here exceed 60 degrees, but over the weekend, we might experience temperatures dropping to around 6 degrees. It will be intriguing to evaluate the performance of the rear tire under these conditions."

Earlier this year, I took a ride on the Panigale at this location. Typically, the grip improves somewhat when the weather is cooler. The temperature often poses challenges, especially with these long stretches that require intense acceleration.

"I believe we'll witness some incredibly quick lap times all weekend long."

Miller holds the 14th position in the world championship standings, maintaining a 13-point lead over Miguel Oliveira, who will join him as a teammate at Pramac Yamaha in the

For the first time, Miller and Oliveira are set to test ride an M1 on Tuesday.

Peter has spent two decades in the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is closely involved in the developments regarding Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's injury challenges.

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"For Marc Marquez, it's insignificant – but for me, it holds significance!"

The contest for third place in the championship doesn't matter to Marc Marquez.

Enea Bastianini has the opportunity to match his career-high of securing third place in the MotoGP championship during the final race this weekend.

Heading into the Barcelona round, he trails Marc Marquez by just one point, with Marquez currently in third place.

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In 2022, Bastianini secured third place while riding for Gresini, but he believes that matching that performance this year would be an even more significant accomplishment.

"It's about motivation. While it doesn't mean much to Marc, it's significant for me," Bastianini emphasized.

"Since I have secured just one championship, while Marc has claimed eight."

"I'm looking forward to competing against him. He's incredibly quick on this track, but I'm prepared for the challenge."

"This race could be more significant compared to 2022 since I'm competing against one of the top figures in the sport, Marc."

"We are on the verge of reaching the lead and securing victory in this battle."

Bastianini is gearing up for his last MotoGP event as a member of Ducati's factory team.

His tenure, which has lasted two years, is set to conclude on Sunday as he prepares to move to the Tech3 KTM team in 2025. This change comes as Marquez takes his spot in Ducati's factory team.

Following his championship showdown with Pecco Bagnaia, Jorge Martin is set to depart from the Ducati team and make the switch to Aprilia.

This suggests that Martin and Bastianini might realistically surpass Bagnaia and Marquez, with the less favored duo potentially outperforming the more favored pair.

Bastianini grinned and remarked, "It will likely feel unusual for the team…"

What are his fondest recollections while wearing

Bastianini dismissed his challenging first year in red due to injury, saying, "2023 doesn't count! But other years? They all brought me unique motivation."

Back in 2021, I had challenges with a tough bike, but I managed to secure a podium finish in Misano.

"I achieved my first victory in Qatar while racing with Gresini, marking an exceptional championship season, the finest of my career."

"In 2024, I have consistently been at the forefront, striving for positive outcomes."

"However, I lacked that burst of energy. I need to work on being more dynamic going forward."

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter for Sky Sports, where he covered a wide range of sports, including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

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Maverick Vinales has offered his championship-winning Moto3 motorcycle for an auction in Valencia. "This bike holds a special place for me as I secured my title with it. However, it's important to assist those in need."

Maverick Vinales is set to participate in his last MotoGP race with Aprilia this weekend. In a generous gesture, he has contributed his Moto3 championship-winning motorcycle to a charity auction, with the proceeds intended to support those affected by the floods in Valencia.

Due to severe flooding, MotoGP has decided to relocate its scheduled season finale from Valencia to Barcelona this weekend. Additionally, an online auction is being organized as part of efforts to raise funds.

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In 2013, Vinales secured his debut and, to date, sole world championship in the Moto3 category. However, his commitment to aiding individuals affected by the Valencia tragedy surpasses his sentimental connection to the KTM RC250GP bike.

"This is what it means to be human. If we don't support one another, who else will come to our aid?" Vinales remarked on the day before the newly named 'Solidarity Barcelona MotoGP' finale this weekend.

"For several years, I've been making an effort to focus less on material possessions and more on emotions. While I do have a unique connection with this bike, given that I won my championship with it, I realized that there are others who are in need of assistance."

A few friends recently traveled to Valencia to offer assistance and work there. They mentioned that the situation is extremely dire. It seems the media hasn't fully captured the extent of the problem, but according to them, it's very severe.

"Any assistance we can offer is beneficial. If a fan is willing to contribute by purchasing this bike at a fair price, I'm truly pleased that the funds will reach those in need."

Next season, Vinales is set to ride a KTM again, marking his first time with the brand since 2013, as he joins the Tech3 team.

At present, the sole competitor who has managed to overcome Ducati in a grand prix this year holds a slim possibility of surpassing KTM's current racers, Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta, to secure fifth position in the world championship standings.

"I aim to conclude this season positively," stated Vinales. "We are still battling for positions 5, 6, 7, and 8 in the championship standings, so it would be great if we could surpass some of the KTMs."

"Naturally, I'm thrilled about making my KTM debut next week. It's a fresh journey with a completely different motorcycle."

Although Vinales achieved an impressive double victory at COTA and previously secured a Sprint win in Portimao, he frequently perceives the 2024 Aprilia as a significantly different machine compared to the 2023 model, which was dominant during last year's Catalunya event.

He mentioned that it's clear the 23 bike is well-suited for tracks such as Montmelo, Silverstone, and Assen.

This year, the primary problem centered around the engine brake.

"I'm feeling very optimistic and driven. This is an excellent opportunity to prove ourselves. Returning to a familiar track is always a challenge, but historically, we've improved our speed on our second visit."

During the MotoGP event in Catalunya in May, Vinales secured 8th and 12th place finishes. Meanwhile, his team-mate Aleix Espargaro achieved pole position, claimed victory in the Sprint, and finished fourth in the Grand Prix.

For two decades, Peter has been part of the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is currently at the center of the narrative surrounding Suzuki's departure and the injury challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

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Fabio Quartararo stated that cooler weather conditions are advantageous for Yamaha, but he has "no expectations" for the Barcelona MotoGP. He mentioned that the reduced temperatures improve their performance since the track is known for having very low grip.

The final event of the 2024 MotoGP season is set to take place this weekend in Barcelona. Fabio Quartararo believes that the cooler weather conditions might benefit Yamaha.

Earlier this year, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya hosted the MotoGP event during the Catalan Grand Prix, which took place from May 24th to 26th.

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At that time, the air temperature during the Grand Prix was 26°C, while the track itself reached 47°C. However, for this weekend, it appears improbable that the air temperature will rise above 20°C.

This is expected to affect the track surface, as reduced heat may result in improved grip levels. This is particularly important at Barcelona, where the track is known for its low grip.

"There seems to be no definite expectations for this weekend," remarked Fabio Quartararo, who secured the 17th position in May, with Yamaha struggling significantly in the warm weather and low traction conditions.

The main goal for this weekend is to advance to Q2 after the Practice sessions. We anticipate that the cooler temperatures will work in our favor, given the notoriously low track grip.

"In terms of our current performance, things aren't going as well as we'd like. However, Tuesday's event will be a significant indicator of whether we've actually made progress."

Quartararo mentioned that he anticipates cooler November temperatures, contrasting with the warmer conditions of the Catalan Grand Prix in May, to enhance Yamaha's performance.

He stated, "I believe it will be advantageous for us because the track's grip significantly decreases in extremely hot conditions, leading to much slower lap times."

"In 2020, we competed under very cold conditions, which weren't too unfavorable for us. It's crucial to monitor the front tire, as it's the one that poses the biggest challenge to heat up, particularly during the morning. Overall, I believe the situation is slightly improved."

In August 2024, Alex became a member of the Crash.net team after spending two years reporting on consumer and racing motorcycle news at Visordown.

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It was too late to assist Valentino Rossi during his time at Ducati, but my current task is to support Marc Marquez. The hidden advantage that Ducati had wasn't able to salvage Valentino Rossi's unsuccessful stint with the team.

A vital component of Ducati's operations came too late to assist Valentino Rossi but plays an essential role in aiding Marc Marquez.

Michele Pirro is a reliable and experienced test rider for the manufacturer, playing a vital role in the development of the Desmosedici project.

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He came onto the scene in 2013, just as Rossi was leaving. The initial Ducati he tried out was the 2012 model, which had been a challenge for Rossi. Currently, Pirro is evaluating the Ducati as they get ready for Marquez to join in 2025.

This weekend, during the final race of the season at the Barcelona Grand Prix, Pirro completes a significant journey. He is competing on behalf of Rossi’s VR46 team, stepping in for the injured Fabio di Giannantonio.

Pirro expressed feeling a sense of pressure due to riding for Valentino Rossi's team, whom he considers the greatest rider of all time.

"I began my professional journey at Valentino."

"The initial occasion I tried out the Ducati, it was the same model that Valentino had previously ridden."

"My role is to assist Ducati. This is our final opportunity to test the 2023 bike and evaluate its strengths and weaknesses."

"I believe there aren't any! I plan to check it out. I'll compare it with the new bike next week to see if there's a difference."

This weekend, Pirro is set to take on the challenge of riding VR46’s GP23. It's been two and a half years since he last rode a year-old Ducati model.

During the postseason test on Tuesday, he will share insights from the previous year's bike with the new model as preparations intensify for the launch of the GP25.

Marquez is aiming for the GP25 to help him secure his ninth career championship, which would match the record held by his competitor, Rossi.

Pirro mentioned that there is a chance to return to using the previous motorcycle model due to the unavailability of suitable tires.

"Indeed, it's a competition, yet there's a chance to explore the contrast."

"We haven't had any tires available for testing, yet we've been able to handle the situation."

"In the competitions, Ducati has performed exceptionally well, which makes me very pleased."

When not busy testing for Ducati, Pirro competes in Superbike races. However, he emphasizes that the MotoGP bike is completely different.

"It's an entirely different experience! The braking capabilities and the aerodynamics are on a whole different level," he remarked.

The braking and aerodynamic system presents more challenges when trying to operate it at the maximum capacity.

"The weekend as a whole, particularly with World Superbikes, presents challenges. However, the main distinction lies in the intensity of MotoGP, especially when it comes to braking and accelerating."

"As you get older, you experience a decrease in physical strength. My approach to riding differs from that of the younger riders, which makes it challenging for someone my age."

At 38 years old, Pirro observes as a fresh wave of Ducati riders take on the motorcycle he initially began testing during a time when the manufacturer faced significant challenges following Rossi's departure.

He stated, "Age is the issue!"

"The aerodynamics have changed significantly compared to a decade ago or even five years ago."

Enhancing the speed, the stopping power, and the initial burst off the start line is a completely different scenario than it was before.

"It's refreshing to observe the younger cyclists and their unique approach to riding, with their bodies fully leaning away from the bike."

"I attempt to do this, but it's challenging. Sometimes, when I leave the house, my shoulder might dislocate!"

"This is the typical routine for athletes."

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, where he covered a wide range of events including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

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Aleix Espargaro expressed his deep affection for Jorge by saying, "I care for Jorge as if he were my own child." He is "completely certain" that he has a chance to bid farewell to Aprilia with a victory. Espargaro emphasized that his main concern is Jorge's ability to achieve the championship.

Aleix Espargaro envisions an ideal outcome for the upcoming Solidarity Barcelona MotoGP final: achieving victory in his last race with Aprilia and witnessing Jorge Martin secure the world championship title.

Following a two-decade-long career in grand prix racing, local favorite Espargaro will step away from full-time competition on Sunday. He is set to embark on a new journey as a test rider with Honda.

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Espargaro could still compete in Catalunya as a wild-card entry, but this weekend marks the end of his eight-year tenure with Aprilia. It will likely be his last opportunity to secure a spot on a MotoGP podium.

Having clinched victories in three out of the past four races held in Barcelona, Espargaro is completely confident in his ability to contend for first place in both the Sprint and Sunday races.

"The previous time I visited, Thursday in Barcelona was quite an emotional day due to my retirement announcement during a press conference. However, starting Friday, everything felt like a typical weekend. This time, though, the weekend will be anything but ordinary," Espargaro stated.

The upcoming weekend holds significant importance. Clearly, this home track is my favorite place in the world. I am optimistic that we can gather substantial funds for the Valencia community and put on a great performance this Sunday.

The severe floods have led to the cancellation of the Valencia event, prompting a return to the track where Espargaro, back in May, established a new lap record to secure pole position, triumphed in the Sprint race, and finished fourth in the grand prix as the highest-placed non-Ducati rider.

He stated, "I've put more effort into preparing for the Grand Prix than ever before. My goal is to be competitive right from the start and to contend for the win."

Earlier this year at the first Barcelona Grand Prix, I was extremely focused, but this time around, it's a bit of a different story. This will be my final race riding the Aprilia, and I want to leave with no regrets. My goal is to enjoy the experience and keep a smile on my face. I'm going to give it my all to win, and regardless of the outcome, you'll see me smiling. I am aware that soon I'll be missing my mechanics and my Aprilia, so I want to make the most of it and have a good time.

Do you believe it is feasible to strive for a win?

"Absolutely, without a doubt."

This also applies to the Sunday race, despite Espargaro finishing ten seconds behind Francesco Bagnaia, who won the race in May.

Espargaro is more hopeful because the cooler weather allows him to use softer tires during the race.

"I feel assured since we competed using the hard tires back in May, and I anticipate we won't need them this weekend due to the cooler temperatures. I plan to opt for softer tire compounds."

"I was incredibly quick, setting a new lap record using the soft tire, and Michelin believes this tire can last an entire race. This gives me more confidence and makes me feel that our chances are better."

"Regardless, it will be incredibly challenging as the Ducatis have been performing exceptionally well over the past three months."

Among the airborne Ducatis is Espargaro's close friend and current world championship frontrunner Martin, who currently leads reigning champion Francesco Bagnaia by 24 points.

Martin has the opportunity to secure his inaugural MotoGP championship by either winning the Saturday Sprint or earning two more points than Bagnaia. If he doesn't achieve this, the championship decision will be postponed to the final grand prix on Sunday.

Espargaro expressed his deep affection for Jorge, saying he cares for him as if he were his own child and that his main concern is ensuring Jorge's success.

"Clearly, if he manages to perform well on Saturday, he might be able to assist me slightly on Sunday by not pushing as hard as they did in the previous races, where he and Pecco pulled away, leaving no opportunity for the others."

"If he secures the championship on Saturday, their team can approach Sunday's race with less pressure, giving us a better opportunity."

Imagine it comes down to Sunday, and Espargaro ends up in a battle against Martin.

"If I get the chance to contend for a win this Sunday, it would be incredible. However, considering that he's competing for the championship, my approach will have to be completely different."

"We'll have to wait and see. However, I really hope this turns out to be the issue!"

Next season, Martin is set to replace Espargaro and may carry the #1 plate, which gives Aprilia a strong incentive to support Martin's bid for the championship.

For two decades, Peter has been present in the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is currently leading coverage on the Suzuki departure and the injury challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

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Marc Marquez hints at his strategy for the season's final race by stating, "I don’t receive a bonus." Currently, Marquez is in fourth place as he approaches the Barcelona round.

Marc Marquez has expressed that securing third place in the 2024 MotoGP World Championship holds "no significance" for him, and he added that he "doesn't receive any extra compensation" for achieving that position.

As the season wraps up this weekend with the Solidarity Grand Prix in Barcelona, Marquez holds a narrow lead of one point over Enea Bastianini for the third position in the rankings.

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The competition is set to continue until the grand prix on Sunday. Bastianini, who is preparing for his final race with Ducati, mentioned on Thursday that securing third place in the rankings is "important" to him.

However, when Marquez was questioned about his viewpoint on Thursday, he stated, "Trust me, the third place doesn't matter at all."

"No, I don't receive any extra reward for finishing in third place. It doesn't matter to me at all. Perhaps there is something for Enea, but I'm not familiar with the details of his contract."

"For me, it doesn't matter at all. Can you recall who came in third place in 2022? Or in 2015? I took the third spot, yet no one seems to remember."

"Honestly, finishing in third place isn't going to have any impact on my life."

"The achievements I reached this year have transformed my life. In the most recent two races, I indeed had the speed, as I observed. I decided to take greater risks, thinking, ‘Alright, let's push the limits and see the outcome’."

"I took too many chances and ended up losing two races, falling in both consecutively."

"Let's find out what we can accomplish this weekend, though I've already met my objectives. It's more crucial to end things on a positive note for the team rather than focusing on myself."

This weekend's race, marking the 20th round of the season, will be Marquez's final appearance with the Gresini team. He is set to join the factory Ducati team next, taking over the spot left by Bastianini, who is moving to KTM.

After a challenging conclusion to his stint with Honda, Marquez found success again with Gresini, describing it as the "ideal family" that revitalized his MotoGP career.

"Last night, we had a heartfelt dinner, as Gresini has quickly become a crucial team in my career after just one season," he stated.

"I discovered an ideal environment for a fresh start, as people often mention on social media, to reignite my sense of competitiveness. I found the perfect family-like atmosphere, with my brother as a teammate and a team that consistently maintained their approach."

"The ideal way to express gratitude is by aiming for a successful race weekend and striving to conclude it on a positive note."

"However, as I mentioned to them last night, the future is always uncertain. This group is incredibly professional, and with them, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to."

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Honda outlines expectations for various track conditions in Barcelona.

"The extended right-hand turns result in significant wheel spin…"

This weekend's final MotoGP event in Barcelona is expected to have atypical conditions, yet Honda rider Luca Marini believes the circuit will remain "challenging" in terms of tire wear.

During this year's Catalan Grand Prix, which took place earlier in May, the ambient temperature reached 26°C. However, this weekend, temperatures are predicted to be in the mid to high teens.

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Marini commented that, in his view, the only difference the cooler temperatures make is that the track offers better grip.

"However, the track is quite tough on the tires due to its design; the lengthy right-hand turns cause a significant amount of spinning."

"However, having slightly better traction, easier braking, and increased speed on the straightaway with reduced temperature would be beneficial."

The question arises: Will this weekend mirror the events of the Catalan Grand Prix held in May?

"I'm not sure," Marini remarked. "It's hard to determine at the moment. What is certain is that it will improve grip for everyone, as many people are having significant issues with rear grip."

"In my view, this could work in our favor, particularly for Honda and Yamaha. We'll have to wait and see."

"Since the Grand Prix in Barcelona, our motorcycle has undergone significant changes. We'll evaluate whether we're making progress and assess the extent of the bike's improvements."

Due to severe flooding at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo, the final round of the 2024 season had to be relocated from Valencia to Barcelona at the last minute. As a result, Michelin faced a delay in choosing the tire compounds for this race.

Marini expressed that it makes no difference to him. He stated, "It's not an issue whether they have to select the tires at the start of the season or not."

"I believe they did an excellent job this year, with the exception of the allocation for Sepang, which was unusual and not ideal. However, the arrangements for all the other races were flawless."

He mentioned, "I believe the weather outlook is excellent, and it seems we've been fortunate. In my view, Michelin has provided us with a great selection."

"We plan to utilize the dual compound for the front tire, as the left-hand turns—particularly turns two and five—tend to pose a challenge here."

"It will be intriguing to observe the performance of the soft compound front tomorrow morning. During practice, the hard compound with the double compound might prove to be an excellent choice for the race. This, in my opinion, is the most fascinating aspect."

Regarding the rear tyres, they are providing an exceptionally soft compound, which is the softest available throughout the season. It feels somewhat unusual to have such a soft tyre at the Barcelona track, known for being tough on tyres. However, achieving fast lap times with this setup is certain to be incredibly enjoyable.

Marini mentioned that he previously proposed that manufacturers be given greater flexibility in selecting their tyre allocations for each race.

He mentioned that he occasionally wonders whether it might be ideal for manufacturers to select their own tires.

"For instance, consider the volume or quantity, if that's feasible."

"The situation with the compounds is challenging. In my opinion, having only five medium compound fronts available is insufficient. This is the tire we know performs best or is the most manageable with just one compound. If the double compound doesn't perform well, we're forced to compromise FP1 by using a suboptimal tire, just to preserve more medium options. These medium tires are undoubtedly the most suitable for the current temperature conditions."

"From my perspective, this could be an effective solution, but they are resistant to making changes."

In August 2024, Alex became a member of the Crash.net team after spending two years reporting on both consumer and racing motorcycle news at Visordown.

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Aleix Espargaro reflects on his departure from Aprilia in MotoGP, noting, "In recent times, we've claimed victory in three out of the last four races at this venue." As he prepares for his final race with Aprilia, Espargaro is determined to secure a podium finish, stating, "Our performance here has been remarkable."

Aleix Espargaro is aiming to recreate his impressive performance at Montmelo one last time as he prepares for his final race with Aprilia in MotoGP.

On Sunday, the well-known racer will officially conclude a 20-year career in grand prix racing at the rescheduled season finale in Barcelona. Following this, they will embark on a new phase as a test and wild-card rider for Honda.

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Since joining Aprilia in 2017, Espargaro has been the standout rider on the RS-GP, achieving significant milestones like securing its first pole position, podium finish, race victory, and even leading the world championship.

However, Maverick Vinales, Espargaro's teammate, will put a stop to Espargaro's streak in 2024. Vinales will enter the final round with a 43-point lead over Espargaro, making it impossible for Espargaro to catch

Vinales stands out as the sole competitor to have outpaced Ducati in a grand prix this year, thanks to his flawless performance at the Circuit of the Americas. On the other hand, Espargaro might have posed a tighter challenge had he not been hindered by an injury at Assen, which also caused him to miss the race in Germany.

When looking at their performance records at Catalunya with Aprilia, Espargaro holds the upper hand. Last season, he achieved flawless victories in both races. This year, in May, he secured the pole position and won the Sprint race, finishing fourth in the grand prix, 12 seconds ahead of Vinales.

Expectations are soaring for Espargaro to enhance his record with Aprilia, which currently includes 3 MotoGP wins, 2 Sprint race victories, 15 podium finishes, and 5 pole positions, all as he gears up for his final weekend 'in black'.

Espargaro expressed that the Barcelona circuit feels like home to him, highlighting his fondness for it and its compatibility with both his and Aprilia's racing style.

"We've seen remarkable success recently, clinching victory in three of the past four races and setting a new track record. These achievements suggest that we have the potential to remain in the lead."

"I am eager to complete my final race with Aprilia in a strong position, aiming for a spot on the podium."

"I plan to concentrate completely from the beginning and we'll put in our utmost effort to achieve a positive outcome."

Massimo Rivola, the team's director, commented that it would be a memorable moment to watch Aleix conclude his Aprilia journey at his local circuit in Montmeló, the place where he recently secured a pole position and a sprint race victory.

The positive development for Espargaro and Aprilia is that the overheating issues that troubled the RS-GP in Sepang will not be a concern in Barcelona's cool autumn weather.

In contrast, the 2024 aerodynamic package seems to be less effective in the quicker turns at the Circuit de Catalunya. Meanwhile, Raul Fernandez attracted attention while riding the 2023 model bike back in May.

In addition to his race this weekend, Espargaro will undoubtedly be watching his good friend Jorge Martin closely. Martin, who will be riding for Aprilia in 2025, has an opportunity to clinch the MotoGP championship for Pramac Ducati this Saturday.

In the meantime, the Barcelona MotoGP event, organized in support of solidarity, will serve as Vinales' last appearance with Aprilia before he moves to Tech3 KTM in 2025.

Following victories in the first three rounds, which included Sprint races, Vinales has not secured a podium finish since then. As a result, he has fallen behind Pedro Acosta and Brad Binder's KTMs in the standings for the top non-Ducati competitors.

Vinales expressed his fondness for the Montmeló circuit, highlighting it as one of his favorite venues due to its proximity to his home. He noted that competing in his home Grand Prix always fills him with enthusiasm.

"The forecast indicates that the weather will be erratic, featuring cooler temperatures."

"This weekend is going to be quite unique: we'll be competing in Valencia, and it's also going to be my final race with Aprilia, so I'll put in my maximum effort."

Vinales has participated in 64 races with Aprilia, during which he secured one MotoGP victory, achieved wins in two Sprint events, reached the podium 13 times, and earned 2 pole positions.

For two decades, Peter has been present in the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is currently leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with his injuries.

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Casey Stoner criticizes the sprint race setup: "MotoGP is not challenging enough"

Casey Stoner shares his opinion on the current MotoGP weekend structure.

Former MotoGP champion Casey Stoner has expressed disapproval of the sprint race format, arguing that it artificially alters the dynamics of the grand prix races.

Last year, MotoGP implemented a new format featuring a sprint race on Saturdays at each event, and Francesco Bagnaia emerged as the 2023 champion.

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As we approach the season finale this weekend, Bagnaia is currently 24 points behind Jorge Martin. Despite this, Bagnaia has secured victory in 10 of the 19 Sunday races, while Martin has only managed to win three.

Martin's exceptional performance in the Saturday sprint races might play a vital role in securing his inaugural championship title, provided he maintains his substantial lead. His victory in the Saturday sprint in Barcelona would officially crown him as the champion.

However, Stoner, who has won the championship twice, expressed to GPOne: "Motorsport is meant to showcase top riders on the most challenging vehicles to operate, but currently, MotoGP isn't challenging enough."

"The riders lack sufficient command over the motorcycle, largely due to the engineers having too much influence."

"They scheduled the sprint race, which cuts down the time available for drivers to focus on preparations for the longer race."

"It is not intended for a world championship to involve small-scale models; instead, it should be a test of endurance."

"It's similar to announcing a marathon and then declaring that running 10 laps isn't enough because a marathon is 43 kilometers long!"

"It is extremely demanding and challenging work. Therefore, we require consistency because the world championship is intended to be a long-distance competition."

"You need to consider the entire race distance rather than just rely on participants who excel briefly using the soft tyre."

“It is important to note that points should not be awarded for sprint races, as the main race on Sunday is when points are traditionally earned.”

"Preparing a bike for a race is quite challenging. It's essential to ensure that you can maintain concentration for the duration of the event."

"Currently, our emphasis is on a single lap, as it's crucial to advance past Q2 right from the initial practice session."

"This prevents everyone from focusing on race preparations and completing those tasks."

"I believe this explains why, on Sundays, there's often a significant gap between the riders, as not everyone is prepared to match the race pace."

Considering the advancements in electronics and aerodynamics, Stoner stated: "Overall, I believe that MotoGP bikes have become some of the simplest motorcycles to handle globally."

Casey Stoner claimed the MotoGP championships in 2007 riding for Ducati and again in 2011 while racing with Honda.

His win with Ducati turned out to be misleadingly hopeful for the brand. Over the following 15 years, they faced difficulties and failed to secure a championship title, even after bringing on board Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo.

In 2022, Bagnaia broke that streak, while Stoner has frequently criticized the modern technology used in MotoGP bikes.

He has criticized the format that's been in place for two years, which might help Martin win the championship over Bagnaia.

For ten years, James worked as a sports journalist at Sky Sports, where he reported on a wide range of topics including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

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