Aprilia: "Jorge Martin Shows Promise, Yet Struggles with the Bike at Times"

Massimo Rivola Discusses Jorge Martin's Insights

Massimo Rivola has discussed the various successes and challenges Jorge Martin encountered during his initial laps on an Aprilia bike.

Just two days after clinching his inaugural MotoGP championship, Martin transitioned from Pramac Ducati to join the official Aprilia team.

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He will defend his title using a new motorcycle, one that trailed behind the Ducatis over the past year, though it is a project with potential for development.

Aprilia's CEO, Rivola, described the atmosphere as extremely upbeat during Martin's initial testing session.

"He provided more favorable comments than we had anticipated."

"Clearly, some aspects have improved, while others still have room for enhancement."

Overall, he is very fond of the bike. However, there were moments on the screen where he seemed to be struggling with it occasionally.

"We have a sense of his desires."

"It's noteworthy that Marco Bezzecchi expressed similar thoughts, indicating a clear trend."

"They began by working on the 2024 model of the bike before transitioning to the 2025 version

"The trajectory for '25 appears to be an improvement over '24, so perhaps we can continue progressing along that path."

"I feel optimistic and joyful about today."

Martin participated in the test with the number 89 displayed on his racing suit and motorcycle. He has not yet made a decision regarding the use of the number 1 plate in 2025.

Aprilia and Ducati have been in a tussle about Martin securing victories on one motorcycle brand and then associating himself with a competing brand.

"Significant Transformations to Tackle Major Challenges"

In 2025, Aprilia secured Marco Bezzecchi from the VR46 team, offering him his inaugural opportunity with a factory team.

Ducati decided to select Marc Marquez for their official 2025 team, which resulted in Martin and Bezzecchi becoming free agents.

This indicates that the Aprilia team looked quite different during the test after the season, as both Maverick Vinales and Aleix Espargaro were no longer present.

Rivola mentioned that it was rather distinct to have Fabiano Sterlacchini serving in his capacity as the technical director, along with a new crew leader and some mechanics.

"Significant transformations for a major challenge."

"The connection among the individuals was remarkable. I observed a cohesive group. It was gratifying to witness such unity."

Aprilia aims to challenge Ducati as their closest competitors in 2025, with the ambition of potentially surpassing them.

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

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Aprilia: "Jorge Martin shows promise, yet occasionally struggled with the bike"

Massimo Rivola shares insights from Jorge Martin's observations

Massimo Rivola has detailed the ups and downs experienced by Jorge Martin during his initial laps on an Aprilia.

Just two days after clinching his inaugural MotoGP championship title, Martin moved from Pramac Ducati to join the official Aprilia team.

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He will defend his title using a new motorcycle, which was slower than the Ducatis this year, although it is a project that has potential for development.

Aprilia CEO Rivola described Martin's initial test as having an extremely positive atmosphere.

"He provided more encouraging comments than we had anticipated."

"Clearly, some aspects have improved, while others still have room for enhancement."

Overall, he has a strong preference for the bike. However, there were moments on screen where he seemed to struggle with it.

"We understand what he is looking for."

"It's noteworthy that Marco Bezzecchi expressed similar views, indicating a clear trend."

"They began with the bike model for 2024 and subsequently transitioned to the 2025 version."

The trajectory for the '25 model seems to be more promising than the '24, so perhaps we can make further progress in that direction.

"I feel optimistic and content today."

Martin, who wore the number 89 on both his racing suit and motorcycle during testing, has not yet made a decision on using the number 1 plate in 2025.

Aprilia and Ducati have been involved in a back-and-forth situation concerning Martin, who achieved victory on one motorcycle, only to then endorse a competing brand.

'Major Adjustments for a Significant Challenge'

In 2025, Aprilia brought Marco Bezzecchi on board from VR46, offering him his first opportunity with a factory team.

When Ducati decided to select Marc Marquez for their official team in 2025, Martin and Bezzecchi found themselves open for new opportunities.

The Aprilia team saw significant changes during the postseason testing, as both Maverick Vinales and Aleix Espargaro were absent.

"It was a distinctive situation, especially with Fabiano Sterlacchini in his new position as technical director, along with a new crew chief and a few mechanics," Rivola commented.

"Significant transformations to tackle a major challenge."

"The camaraderie among the individuals was remarkable. I witnessed a cohesive group. It was gratifying to observe this sense of unity."

Aprilia aims to emerge as Ducati's main competitors by 2025, with the ultimate goal of surpassing them.

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

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Max Biaggi achieved new milestones, while Valentino Rossi was frustrated because he couldn't test the M1. "He mentioned to me, 'I believe we made a mistake.'"

Recollections have surfaced of a frustrated Valentino Rossi expressing his discontent from home during an important MotoGP event.

In a significant moment in MotoGP history, Rossi was not allowed by Honda to try out the Yamaha before changing teams at the end of 2003.

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Rather, he sat with frustration as he observed his competitor, Max Biaggi, make a strong statement for the upcoming season by excelling in the 2003 postseason trial.

According to Uccio Salucci's comments to GPOne, Vale did not enjoy his final year at HRC.

Actually, he was beginning to feel exhausted. Our pace had decreased, and he had lost interest in attending the races.

"That's the reason I mentioned we needed to make a change. We chose to switch to Yamaha."

"Honda did not allow us to conduct tests on the M1 right after the championship concluded."

In that particular year, Biaggi made the switch from Yamaha to Honda, doing the inverse.

It is undeniable that Biaggi set record-breaking times right from the start during the tests.

Vale was frustrated because he was stuck at home on the sofa and couldn't try out the M1.

He said to me, "I believe we made a mistake."

Rossi's initial experience with the Yamaha was postponed until the beginning of 2004 in Sepang.

Salucci remembered, "After a few laps, Vale returned to the garage and exclaimed, 'We can achieve this!'"

He told everyone in the garage, "Folks, there's room for improvement, but this bike isn't so bad."

He quipped, "When Valentino spoke, a few engineers passed out! It made everyone burst into laughter!"

In an unforgettable clash with Biaggi, Rossi clinched victory in the opening race of 2004 in South Africa, marking his first triumph riding a Yamaha.

Salucci emphasized that at the conclusion of the second practice session, he confidently declared, "We are going to win this race."

"He emerged victorious in the race, and I captured a photo of him chuckling beside his bicycle."

Numerous individuals believe he shed tears at that moment. However, he actually laughed as those months had been quite challenging for Vale. That triumph was a release for him.

During the subsequent race, he advised me, "Let's avoid repeating the error from 2000. Let's have faith because I aim to clinch the championship."

In 2004, Rossi managed to secure the championship during his debut season with Yamaha.

The following year, he continued his achievements, leading to Yamaha being closely associated with his triumphs.

Rossi secured nine world championship titles in his career, yet his initial victory with Yamaha, marking a distinctive beginning, will always be remembered.

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, focusing on a wide range of sports including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1 racing.

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Lineup for the 2024 Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix

The commencement details for the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix in Formula 1.

Presented here is the lineup for the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix in Formula 1.

Mercedes driver George Russell has secured the pole position for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, while Carlos Sainz from Ferrari will be starting alongside him on the front row.

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Pierre Gasly, driving for Alpine, secured third position with an impressive qualifying performance, placing him in front of Charles Leclerc's Ferrari.

Max Verstappen secured the fifth position in terms of speed, but importantly, he will begin the race ahead of Lando Norris, his competitor for the F1 championship, as he aims to secure his fourth world title in a row.

Yuki Tsunoda secured the seventh position for Red Bull, placing ahead of McLaren's Oscar Piastri. Following them was Nico Hulkenberg from Haas, while Lewis Hamilton managed to qualify in 10th place after an unsettled series of laps during Q3.

Valtteri Bottas from Sauber is set to begin the race in the 20th and final position due to receiving a five-place grid penalty for an engine change.

I'm

Lewis frequently travels globally to cover Grand Prix events for Crash.net. By providing on-the-spot reporting, Lewis shares the narratives of key figures in the world of racing.

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Toto Wolff candidly discusses how Mercedes' struggles are affecting Lewis Hamilton's legacy, while asserting that it's "not all a failure."

Toto Wolff asserts that the last three lackluster seasons Lewis Hamilton has experienced with Mercedes won't diminish the achievements he has accomplished in the past.

Hamilton has secured six out of his seven F1 drivers' titles during a legendary period with Mercedes, which is set to come to an end after this season.

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In 2025, Hamilton aims to rejuvenate his aspirations for an F1 championship by joining Ferrari.

However, Mercedes chief Wolff refuted claims that the team's three years of substandard performance might "diminish" the legacy of their iconic driver during his tenure with the team.

"It's the toughest motorsport on the planet, and we were fortunate and grateful to have secured eight World Championship titles in a row," he stated.

"No other sport had seen such an achievement before. Additionally, Lewis claimed seven drivers' titles."

"You can't assume that just because of this, you'll win all the time or compete for every championship. That's not how it works."

"The regulations were altered on two occasions, yet we sustained our performance level and secured championships."

"We've been taken by surprise by the new 2022 regulations. Up to now, we haven't managed to consistently deliver a car that offers reliable performance for the drivers. It's been challenging to create a vehicle with sufficient downforce that doesn't experience bouncing or hopping. Additionally, we need a setup where the ride quality is satisfactory and the tire wear is controllable, avoiding extremes of being too cold or too hot."

"That's just the nature of sports. It's quite simple."

When questioned about whether he considered his season unsuccessful, a basketball player responded by pointing out that Michael Jordan participated in 12 NBA seasons, winning championships in only six of them. He implied that by that logic, should the remaining six seasons be deemed failures?

"We have been competing in this championship for 12 years, and we have secured victories in eight of them. Does that mean the remaining years were unsuccessful?"

"Two years ago, we came in third place, then improved to second place last year, despite not winning any races. This year, we not only achieved victories but actually won three races."

"Therefore, it can't be considered a complete failure. It was actually a successful period for both Mercedes and Lewis."

"We aim to improve continuously, putting in effort each day and throughout every weekend. This commitment extends to the upcoming season and the major event in 2026."

"Good luck to Lewis – but let's hope the car isn't too quick."

Hamilton made a comeback this year, claiming his first win since 2021 at the F1 British Grand Prix.

Since the 2021 Abu Dhabi event, Red Bull has dominated, while Mercedes has fallen behind both McLaren and Ferrari this season.

Hamilton has just three more races left with Mercedes before he switches to the red team.

Wolff stated that there haven't been any heartfelt farewells yet, explaining, "We're still in the middle of the season, so the weekends are continuing as they always have."

"Meetings focused on long-term development aren't held very often, and we haven't had any in recent months. This is quite typical."

Currently, there isn't a strong emotional response to the fact that this is concluding. However, as we approach Abu Dhabi and the final sessions and race, it will likely be significant, given the remarkable partnership we've shared for so many years.

"However, Lewis isn't going anywhere; he'll be racing on the grid next year with a Ferrari."

We aren't losing the individual; we're merely losing the one who drives.

"We are stepping into a new era. Our drivers, aged 18 and 27, will lead the way, and this prospect is incredibly thrilling."

"On a personal note, we hope for all the best and happiness for Lewis. And perhaps a car that isn't quite as speedy."

"However, it was a choice he made, and we are fine with it."

Mercedes plans to team up George Russell with newcomer Kimi Antonelli for the next racing season.

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

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A seasoned MotoGP racer has retired from the sport without fanfare, saying, "The journey is coming to an end."

A well-regarded racer discreetly announced the end of his 12-year journey in MotoGP.

Stefan Bradl has announced that his final MotoGP race took place last weekend at the season finale in Barcelona.

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Bradl has been a loyal member of the Honda team since he debuted in the premier class in 2012.

He is set to carry on with his duties as a test rider for HRC, a position he has dedicated himself to for many years. However, in the upcoming season, Aleix Espargaro and Takaaki Nakagami will join him on the test team.

"This is my final opportunity to use a wildcard entry," Bradl mentioned the previous weekend in Barcelona.

"I am confident that going forward, they will select Aleix and Taka."

"I'm okay with it; I've informed them that I'm okay. They are faster."

"Next season, Aleix and Taka will participate in six wildcard events."

Bradl stated, "I arrived with these ideas and shared them with HRC. I'm satisfied with the outcome."

"I've spent quite a bit of time in this place. It's all right. My initial experience with a wildcard happened nineteen years ago."

"The situation is coming full circle."

Bradl is open to having more test riders join the team. In Barcelona, he placed 22nd, but his main attention was on the crucial development work for Honda.

Following his final race, he announced, "I've decided it's time for me to step down from being a full-time racer."

"I'm pleased to be in a strong position that allows me to continue participating in MotoGP test rides."

"Honda currently employs three test riders, which is beneficial. Their involvement is crucial for the advancements we aim to achieve."

"I am pleased to offer my insights and expertise to HRC and the fellow racers."

"As someone who tests bikes, I have to perform tasks that are typically difficult to execute during a race weekend. From the perspective of a rider, this is quite demanding."

"I understand the operations of the people and the company, and I know they can achieve success. They are the leading manufacturer in this sport."

"They possess the expertise and enthusiasm needed to return."

"Next year will see an increase in speed. They are also beginning to focus on the upcoming regulations and the new engine specifications."

Bradl expressed approval for Espargaro and Nakagami joining Honda's test team.

"It's beneficial for me. I had numerous tasks to handle, and it felt like a huge burden," he mentioned.

"I felt pleased when they placed their trust in me. However, it's great to have Aleix and Taka on board now because we require additional support. More team members are necessary to accomplish our tasks."

In the MotoGP season of 2013, Bradl achieved his highest ranking by finishing in seventh place. During that season, he also secured his sole podium finish, which occurred in the United States.

Significantly, he stepped in for Marc Marquez in 2020 following Marquez's severe injury.

He will carry on with his efforts out of the spotlight, focusing on the development of Honda.

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

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Alvaro Bautista reignites controversy over Andrea Iannone's controversial "faster" statement

Alvaro Bautista targets Andrea Iannone's daring assertion

Alvaro Bautista has once more responded to Andrea Iannone's assertion that he could be "faster" during his MotoGP wildcard appearance.

Andrea Iannone participated in the Malaysian MotoGP as a wildcard entry, just like Alvaro Bautista did a year earlier.

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After riding a GP23 for the VR46 Ducati team, Iannone stated that he had achieved a faster time than Bautista did the previous year.

Bautista expressed to Motosprint that making comparisons isn't pleasant and regretted that Andrea chose to compare himself to him, as their circumstances were quite distinct.

"I'm not sure why he thinks he was quicker than I was, considering he completed one fewer lap during the race."

"I simply want to protect myself since this is not an ideal circumstance. As I mentioned, there are two separate issues at play, especially because I came to Sepang with a significant shoulder injury."

"Had he completed the tests, he might have been quicker, similar to how I am without any injuries. However, speculating with 'ifs' and 'buts' doesn't achieve much."

"If my birthplace had been Hollywood, I might have achieved fame as an actor. However, since I was born in Talavera, I am a rider instead!"

"The statistics reveal the reality, and I apologize for drawing this parallel."

"I’m not seeking to stir up trouble; I just want to stand up for myself. Although it’s nonsense, I didn't intend for it to conclude like this."

In 2023, while racing for Ducati at Sepang, Bautista continued to experience the impact of a shoulder injury.

In 2023, Bautista secured the 17th position in the grand prix, just as Iannone did this year.

This year, they clashed in the World Superbike Championship as Iannone made his comeback following a four-year suspension.

In his attempt to defend his title, Bautista secured third place, while Iannone ended up in seventh position.

In 2025, both individuals are set to come back, with plans

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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MotoGP victor Jorge Martin entangled in contentious dispute on Spanish television

Martin finds himself at the center of a contractual disagreement over a TV interview

Freshly crowned MotoGP world champion Jorge Martin found himself entangled in a legal tussle between two Spanish TV networks over a scheduled interview appearance.

Martin clinched his inaugural MotoGP world championship title during the final race of the 2024 season last weekend.

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He emerges as the inaugural racer in the contemporary period to clinch the championship with an independent team, marking him as Ducati's third victor in the MotoGP series.

Martin was scheduled to make an appearance on La Revuelta, a new show on Television Espanola that was established this year to compete with the longstanding program El Hormiguero.

Martin had to call off his scheduled performance on La Revuelta because of contractual obligations with El Hormiguero, a decision made while he was in the dressing room for the latter show.

The dispute seems to revolve around the issue that Atresmedia, the parent company of El Hormiguero, also holds an agreement with Dorna Sports to broadcast a selection of races on La Sexta without charging viewers.

"Today we were expecting MotoGP world champion Jorge Martin, who, as it turns out, is actually here, backstage," said David Broncano, the host of La Revuelta.

"Yet, thirty minutes prior to departure, he informed us that El Hormiguero had discovered his impending visit."

"Because they prefer no visitor to show up in this location instead of another, they've exerted their influence using the methods of persuasion available to them. Consequently, Jorge has informed us that he's unable to participate in the interview."

"He has informed us that he's unable to participate in the show due to certain consequences that would arise."

El Hormiguero released a statement regarding the incident, indicating: "It was a minor miscommunication.

"Fourteen days prior to the ultimate MotoGP event, we had secured an exclusive appearance by Jorge Martin on our show."

Today, a representative from their team accidentally altered the planned meeting with another cyclist.

"Following the incident, Dorna, the entity in charge of the Motorcycle World Championship, reached out to the officials to address the matter."

Autosport reports that the disagreement over the contract came to light when Martin shared a tweet, which has since been removed, regarding his appearances on La Revuelta.

La Revuelta released a concise statement on social media in support of Martin and his team, asserting that they should not be held responsible for the circumstances.

"Yesterday, Jorge Martin and his team went above and beyond to make sure the interview could go on air, dispelling any uncertainties," the statement said.

"Their conduct was flawless, and we hope to have the opportunity to welcome him again in the future and rejoice in his achievement as a world champion."

Martin expressed his gratitude on Twitter, saying, "Appreciation to everyone at La Revuelta and our viewers! What an incredible evening! I'll return shortly and we can all enjoy it together."

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KTM refutes claims of impending financial aid from Red Bull amidst corporate difficulties

Despite economic challenges, KTM's MotoGP venture remains on course

The Pierer Mobility Group has released a formal declaration refuting claims that Red Bull's co-owner, Mark Mateschitz, might assist KTM in overcoming its financial difficulties.

KTM, which collaborates with Red Bull for its MotoGP team sponsorship, has experienced a dramatic 90% decrease in its stock values since February 2022. This significant financial downturn has prompted the company to adopt severe actions.

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The company based in Austria has significantly reduced its board of directors from six members to just two. Additionally, it is preparing for the dismissal of up to 300 employees, adding to the number of positions already eliminated.

KTM plans to halt manufacturing during the initial two months of 2025 as it seeks to secure approximately €100 million.

The Austrian publication Salzburger Nachrichten has disclosed that discussions have occurred regarding Mark Mateschitz, the son of the deceased Red Bull co-founder Dietrich, potentially providing financial support to KTM.

In a formal rebuttal, the Pierer Mobility Group refuted claims made by the media, stating, "Pierer Mobility wishes to clarify, contrary to what has been reported in the press, that there are currently no ongoing talks regarding Mark Mateschitz's potential involvement with Pierer Mobility and KTM."

KTM remains committed to its MotoGP initiative, ensuring it progresses as planned despite the firm's economic challenges.

In a significant change, the Husqvarna name will no longer feature in the Moto2 and Moto3 championships next season. Moreover, Tech3's teams will cease to compete under the GASGAS branding, which is associated with KTM motorcycles.

Instead, Tech3 will go back to using its team name from the 2021 and 2022 seasons, during which it was called Tech3 KTM Factory Racing.

During a conversation with Salzburger Nachrichten, Pit Beirer stated, "We plan to remain in each of the series we currently participate in."

"No matter the task at hand, we give it our all, committing fully with 100 percent

"However, the spotlight has now shifted solely to the orange [KTM] brand. In certain competitions, our representation has tripled in its intensity."

"The early-stage program we offer, starting with the Rookies Cup, is also secure. During this challenging period, our associates and sponsors are backing us."

The company's achievements in the past two decades have been closely tied to motorsport.

"We serve as the top promotional asset for the company, which has experienced steady growth for more than two decades."

"Our formula for success was simple: win races first, then sell motorcycles."

"We are prepared for competition, viewing motorsport not merely as a goal but as something beyond."

"Currently, we find ourselves in a challenging period, and as the motorsport division, we are committed to contributing towards stabilizing the organization."

"We belong to this family and it's crucial that we remain united at this time. Our training in sports has taught us how to combat challenges. We dedicate all our efforts to the organization and we will overcome these obstacles as one."

Since entering the MotoGP circuit in 2017, KTM has secured victories in seven grand prix events. However, the eight-year period they initially envisioned to position themselves as championship contenders has now passed.

The brand secured the runner-up position in the 2024 MotoGP constructors' rankings, yet it has not achieved a grand prix victory since 2022.

In the upcoming season, the factory team will feature riders Pedro Acosta and Brad Binder, as Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini team up with the Tech3 squad, which receives factory support.

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MotoGP Newcomer Nearly Experiences Heart Attack Prior to Initial Test

Somkiat Chantra Discusses Debut with LCR Honda

LCR Honda's new MotoGP rider, Somkiat Chantra, expressed that he was extremely nervous to the point of nearly having a heart attack prior to his initial bike test on Tuesday in Barcelona.

In an unexpected move during the 2024 rider market changes, the two-time Moto2 victor was chosen by Honda to replace Takaaki Nakagami at LCR.

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Chantra took to the track for the first time on Tuesday during the Barcelona test that follows the season, where he finished 61 laps and ranked second from the bottom in the timing rankings.

After completing his initial ride on the Honda, Chantra shared that he felt quite anxious before starting out.

"Definitely, before getting on the bike, I felt an overwhelming sensation, almost like a heart attack was imminent," he shared.

"When I mounted the bicycle, I thought, 'Alright, let's begin to understand how the bike operates and its mechanics.'"

In his initial trial, Chantra concentrated on familiarizing himself with the Michelin tires and carbon brakes, as he had experience with Pirellis and steel brakes during the 2024 Moto2 season.

"Today marked my initial experience with the MotoGP motorcycle, and my focus was on getting accustomed to the carbon brakes and familiarizing myself with the tyres, as they differ from what I'm used to in MotoGP," he further mentioned.

"Moreover, my team consistently advises to exercise caution on the left side, as the tire tends to cool down quickly when driving straight."

"I was attempting to understand tyre management."

The rider from Thailand expressed his astonishment when he first accelerated the RC213V and then decelerated at the straight's end, providing him with a genuine perception of a MotoGP bike's velocity.

"During my final lap, I made an effort to remain somewhat composed while managing the brake and accelerator," he explained.

Upon reaching the final turn, I attempted to push a bit more to the maximum. While I was in the aerodynamic tuck, it felt alright.

"However, as I slowed down and looked up, the speed was astonishing. With each lap, it improved significantly."

Chantra joins the ranks as one of three newcomers to MotoGP in 2024, sharing the stage with Moto2 world champion Ai Ogura who is set to ride for Trackhouse, and Fermin Aldeguer who will be joining Gresini.

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Why Ferrari Chose Not to Inquire About Lewis Hamilton's Early Start with the Team

Fred Vasseur clarifies the reasons behind Ferrari's decision not to approach Mercedes regarding the possibility of Lewis Hamilton joining the team ahead of schedule.

Fred Vasseur mentioned that Ferrari chose not to inquire with Mercedes about the possibility of Lewis Hamilton participating in an early Formula 1 test for their team, as a sign of "respect" for his existing contract.

Hamilton, who has claimed the world championship title seven times, is set to make a sensational move to Ferrari next season. This change comes after a remarkable 12-year career with Mercedes, during which he decided to trigger an exit clause in his contract.

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However, the possibility of Hamilton debuting with Ferrari during the post-season test after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has been dismissed because the 39-year-old British driver is obligated to fulfill his engagements with Mercedes.

Hamilton is expected to get behind the wheel of a Ferrari F1 car for the first time at the Fiorano circuit, which is the team's exclusive testing location, in early 2025.

Vasseur stated that Ferrari did not ask Mercedes for permission for Hamilton to participate in the Abu Dhabi test.

"No, there's a contract in place, so I haven't even approached Toto to take any action," Vasseur clarified.

"There is an agreement in place that must be honored. Just because we are accommodating Carlos doesn't mean that everyone else is obligated to follow suit."

Wolff mentioned that Mercedes has organized "farewell" arrangements for Hamilton, which stopped him from making such an appearance.

Wolff stated that Fred never made an inquiry. He noted that the situation might vary if the destination were Williams, but emphasized that they have binding contracts with their sponsors.

"We're organizing a goodbye event for Lewis with numerous activities lined up. When I briefly discussed it with him, he remarked, 'I suppose that won't be possible.'"

"I mentioned that I didn't believe it would succeed, and that was essentially the entire situation. Therefore, I doubt Fred feels very upset about it."

Vasseur mentioned that he didn't wish to prevent Carlos Sainz, who is leaving the team, from starting early with Williams as a gesture of appreciation for Sainz's "highly professional demeanor" throughout his last year at Ferrari.

Vasseur expressed his gratitude toward Carlos for their partnership and emphasized that he has no intention of hindering him.

He performed exceptionally well with our team this season, demonstrating a high level of professionalism. It would have been easy to lose motivation or not maintain such a professional approach, but he didn't.

"In my opinion, the most fitting way to express gratitude to Carlos was by offering him the chance to participate in the test with Williams."

Lewis frequently travels globally to cover Grands Prix events for Crash.net. He is often on-site, providing firsthand accounts and sharing the narratives of key figures in the racing world.

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Casey Stoner reminisces about the 2007 Ducati's performance: 'It wasn't particularly outstanding in any area'

Stoner had a remarkable 2007 MotoGP season, though it came with its challenges

Casey Stoner mentioned that the Ducati GP7, which he used to excel in the 2007 MotoGP season, "wasn't particularly outstanding in any aspect," yet it "served my purposes well."

In 2007, the Australian rider made a switch to Ducati for his sophomore season in the top tier, following a debut year characterized by speed but marred by accidents with LCR Honda in 2006.

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Ducati demonstrated strong performance during its initial four seasons in the category, yet Stoner amazed everyone by securing victories in 10 grand prix races and clinching his first of two MotoGP championships, finishing 125 points ahead of Honda's Dani Pedrosa.

The second-highest Ducati rider in the rankings was Loris Capirossi, who placed seventh and secured a single victory – notably at the Japanese Grand Prix where Stoner clinched the championship title.

During his appearance on the Ducati Diaries podcast this year, Stoner shared insights into the challenges he faced with the GP7, even though he was able to excel while riding it.

"He started by saying that aside from being decent in fourth and fifth gear, it didn't excel at much else."

"It was unable to navigate turns effectively. However, its performance was quite impressive when braking, maintaining stability throughout."

"Undoubtedly, it lacked potent braking capabilities, yet its stability during braking was unparalleled, marking the first time I had experienced such steadiness on a bike."

"Therefore, it was truly a wonderful feature to possess. In the fourth, fifth, and sixth gear, it truly excelled and stood out."

"However, in the initial three gears, we were completely outperformed. Therefore, at any circuits where acceleration and strong pushes out of the turns are crucial, we found ourselves at a significant disadvantage, facing great challenges."

"Our strategy was to downplay the flaws and enhance its strong points. The results were clear to everyone: its remarkable top speed and the stability it maintained during braking were its standout features."

"Essentially, our strategy was to secure positions at the front of the pack during races, forcing our competitors to exert more effort. This was crucial because if we failed to secure a good starting position or to lead early in the race, catching up with other racers became exceedingly difficult. Once opponents managed to gain momentum with several uninterrupted laps, leveraging the full potential of our bike was challenging."

"Essentially, our strategy was to leverage that advantage to its fullest and attempt to navigate the challenges presented by the corners, given the significant difficulty we faced in steering."

"In my view, due to its excessively low stability, it lacked sufficient tilt, which eventually led to adjustments in subsequent years. Although we lost the edge in speed, these modifications improved the motorcycle's maneuverability."

"However, during that period, it proved to be a difficult task, yet it accomplished what was necessary for me. My team performed exceptionally well, mirroring my own efforts."

He expressed his gratitude, saying, "Having the chance to compete for a factory team was such an honor. Coming from a situation where I had essentially just committed to Yamaha, and then to have them withdraw the contract not once, but twice at the very last moment, leaving me without a team for the upcoming season."

"Thankfully, we ended up partnering with Ducati. It gave me the determination to prove to Yamaha that they were wrong to let that opportunity slip."

"Therefore, my objective was to secure a few top-three finishes and perhaps achieve a single victory this year."

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