Solidarity Barcelona MotoGP: Sprint Real-Time Updates

Stay tuned for live updates from this weekend's MotoGP Sprint at the Solidarity Barcelona Grand Prix.

The Sprint race at the MotoGP Solidarity Grand Prix in Barcelona begins this morning at 3:00 PM local time. Francesco Bagnaia will be leading from the first position on the grid, while Jorge Martin has a chance to clinch the world championship today if he finishes with at least two points more than Bagnaia.

Barcelona Sprint: Updated 2024 MotoGP World Championship Rankings

2024 Barcelona MotoGP: Solidarity Sprint Race Outcomes

Pecco Bagnaia claimed triumph in the MotoGP Sprint at Barcelona, with Enea Bastianini ensuring a Ducati Lenovo Team sweep by securing second place ahead of Martin.

Aleix Espargaro secures the fourth position, while Alex Marquez completes the top five.

On the last lap, Bastianini overtakes Martin to secure second position, making his move at the fifth turn.

With one lap remaining, Bagnaia maintains a 1.1-second lead, while Bastianini has closed in on the back of Martin's bike.

Martin now holds a lead of 1.1 seconds over Bagnaia. Is Bagnaia intentionally falling behind? Could he be experiencing late-stage tyre problems?

Bagnaia holds a lead of 1.4 seconds, while Martin keeps a slight edge over the pursuing Bastianini, Marquez, and Espargaro.

With just four laps remaining, Bagnaia is ahead by 1.3 seconds. Meanwhile, Alex Marquez is making a significant push in fourth position, rapidly catching up to Bastianini for the third spot.

Aleix Espargaro has moved up to fifth place, overtaking Franco Morbidelli. Although Espargaro has had a solid Sprint, his poor start may have ruined his chances for a podium finish.

Martin is performing his duties flawlessly. He is maintaining the same speed as Bagnaia, not really gaining ground, but he is managing to pull away from Bastianini with ease.

Bagnaia holds a lead of more than a second over Martin, who is beginning to distance himself from Bastianini in the runner-up spot.

Bagnaia has extended his lead to nearly a second, while Bastianini appears to be slowing down, causing Martin to fall back towards Morbidelli and Marquez. However, Martin regains his position by overtaking into the first turn, moving back into second place.

As the fourth lap commenced, Bastianini reclaimed second position at the first turn.

By the conclusion of the third lap, Bagnaia holds a half-second advantage over Martin. Unfortunately for Bagnaia, with every lap, the gap between them and competitors like Morbidelli and Alex Marquez is widening.

Bagnaia maintains his lead with a 0.4-second advantage over Bastianini. However, as lap three starts, Martin overtakes and moves into second place at the first turn.

Acosta is out of the race. He collided with Marc Marquez at the third turn, causing his entire front fairing to fall off.

Bagnaia crosses the finish line ahead of Bastianini, with Morbidelli also keeping pace with the front runners.

The race has started in Barcelona, with Enea Bastianini taking the initial lead ahead of Bagnaia. However, by the time they reached turn four, Bagnaia had taken the lead, followed by Martin and then Bastianini.

The cyclists have started their preliminary lap before the start of the Solidarity Sprint.

With just five minutes remaining before the Sprint starts, it appears that no one is altering their selection of front tyres.

Selecting the right tires will be crucial for this race. Presently, the air temperature is at 19°C, while the track temperature stands at 20°C. However, these temperatures have the potential to decrease as the race progresses.

During the observation lap, all participants selected a soft rear tire and a hard front tire, except for those who opted for a medium front tire.

However, there is still an opportunity to make adjustments on the grid.

Although Martin and Bagnaia are the sole contenders for the championship, others can still influence the outcome of the competition.

Martin's close companion, Aleix Espargaro, is set to begin the race from the second position. Marc Marquez, who will join Bagnaia as a teammate in the future, takes off from third place. Following Martin in fifth on the grid is Franco Morbidelli, who is also part of the VR46 Academy. Meanwhile, Pedro Acosta, eager for his inaugural MotoGP victory, starts from sixth place.

Although Bagnaia has secured pole position, it is evident that Martin holds the upper hand in the championship leading up to the Sprint. The Spanish rider's 24-point advantage indicates that, even if he fails to finish today, securing third place tomorrow will still clinch the title for him.

We're back in Barcelona for the Sprint event at this weekend's Solidarity Grand Prix. This marks the last Sprint race of the season, and Jorge Martin just needs to outperform Francesco Bagnaia by two points to secure the championship title.

2024 Barcelona MotoGP Solidarity Event – Complete Qualifying Results

Page Navigation

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the freshest news, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

It is not allowed to copy any text, images, or drawings either completely or partially in any manner.

Website Map

Crash.Net

New TV Agreement Secured for MotoGP in the UK Starting 2025 – Sprint Races to be Broadcast for Free

Exciting News for MotoGP Enthusiasts in the UK and Ireland for the Upcoming Year

The television broadcasting agreement for the 2025 MotoGP season has been revealed.

TNT Sports has secured a new multi-year deal to continue broadcasting MotoGP in the UK and Ireland.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, special content, interviews, and offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.

They plan to keep airing live coverage of all sessions for MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3.

Sprint races are set to be broadcast on free-to-air television, marking a significant shift and providing a major advantage for MotoGP enthusiasts in the UK.

In 2025, Quest, a free-to-air channel, will provide live coverage of the sprint race held on Saturdays during each round.

In 2025, Quest will air two live MotoGP grand prix events, including the British Grand Prix, at no cost to viewers.

TNT Sports and discovery+ are set to air the FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship (WorldWCR), along with the FIM MotoE World Championship. They will also cover events from the Road to MotoGP, a program designed to make motorcycle racing more accessible by nurturing new talent.

Trojan Paillot, the Senior Vice President of Sports Rights Acquisitions and Syndications at Warner Bros. Discovery Sports Europe, expressed his enthusiasm for MotoGP, calling it one of the most thrilling sports globally. He stated their pride in maintaining the collaboration with MotoGP. Paillot highlighted the championship's growing appeal, capturing the interest of sports enthusiasts nationwide as top motorsport stars compete in thrilling races at tracks worldwide.

Bringing MotoGP to our free-to-air channel, Quest, will enhance our live broadcasts on TNT Sports, expanding its appeal beyond the usual motorsports enthusiasts.

Scott Young, who holds the position of Group Senior Vice President for Content, Production, and Business Operations at WBD Sports Europe, expressed his enthusiasm about renewing their contract with MotoGP. He highlighted that this renewal allows them to keep sharing the remarkable narratives that contribute to MotoGP's status as an exceptional series.

"TNT Sports' on-air team is unmatched, with Suzi Perry at the helm, who is considered one of the top sports broadcasters in the UK."

MotoGP enthusiasts are known for their intense love of the sport. In collaboration with MotoGP rights holder Dorna, we aim to enhance all divisions within the Championship. This extended agreement allows our team the opportunity to introduce creative concepts that will bring fans closer to the essence of the sport and their favorite athletes.

"Our aim for the future is to assist UK-based riders in fulfilling their dreams of competing in the top tier. In collaboration with MotoGP, we strive to unleash the potential of one of the world's most exhilarating sports."

Alex Arroyo, who leads Media Rights at Dorna Sports, the company holding MotoGP™ rights, expressed his delight by stating, "We're pleased to share that MotoGP enthusiasts in the UK and Ireland will still be able to watch the races on TNT Sports."

Since TNT initially started broadcasting MotoGP, they have delivered exceptional coverage of the sport to viewers in a significant market. We are thrilled that our extended agreement will now include free-to-air Sprints, a fantastic enhancement to the Championship that we believe will captivate new fans. We anticipate collaborating to further develop the sport's popularity throughout the UK and Ireland.

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

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight in your email.

To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.

Breaking News

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

It is prohibited to reproduce text, images, or drawings, whether entirely or partially, in any manner.

Site Map

Crash.Net

Results from the Sprint Race at the Solidarity Barcelona MotoGP, held at the Circuit de Catalunya, marking the 20th and concluding round of the 2024 World Championship season.

* Novice

The 2024 MotoGP championship will be decided at the final race on Sunday, following Francesco Bagnaia's victory in the Barcelona Sprint.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, special insights, interviews, and offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email inbox.

To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.

Jorge Martin, the frontrunner in the world championship, aimed to secure the title today by finishing at least two points ahead of Bagnaia. However, the Italian dashed Martin's plans by converting his pole position into a winning performance, keeping his title chances intact

Things went downhill for Martin as the race progressed. After overtaking Enea Bastianini, a teammate of Bagnaia on the factory team, in the initial laps, Martin was overtaken by Bastianini on the last lap, reclaiming his position.

This means Martin will carry a 19-point advantage over Bagnaia into the season's last race. On the other hand, Bastianini has reclaimed third place in the world championship standings from Marc Marquez.

The top eight in the Sprint were filled by Aleix Espargaro from Aprilia, Alex Marquez representing Gresini, Franco Morbidelli from Pramac, Marc Marquez also from Gresini, and Marco Bezzecchi of VR46.

Brad Binder emerged as the top KTM rider, while Fabio Quartararo on his Yamaha managed to outperform Johann Zarco, who was riding a Honda, securing the tenth position.

Espargaro experienced an unexpected beginning from his position in second place and found himself battling back from eighth. The hometown hero changed to one of his older two-stroke racing motorcycles for the cooldown lap following his last Sprint as a full-time competitor!

In the initial turns, Marc Marquez and Pedro Acosta collided, which resulted in the KTM newcomer having to withdraw due to significant damage to his bike's fairing.

Barcelona stepped in as a last-minute substitute for the usual final event in Valencia, which was called off due to severe flooding.

During MotoGP's May event at the circuit, local favorite Aleix Espargaro revealed his intentions to retire on Thursday. The following day, he topped the practice sessions, secured pole position in qualifying, and clinched victory in the Sprint race, capitalizing on a last-lap error by Bagnaia.

Bagnaia claimed victory in the main race, while Martin, who started from seventh place after a crash during qualifying, secured second place. Meanwhile, Marc Marquez, who failed to advance to Qualifying 2, impressively moved from 14th position to finish on the podium in both races.

Miguel Oliveira is set to make his comeback in his last appearance for Trackhouse, having been absent for five rounds because of fractures to his left wrist sustained in Mandalika.

Michele Pirro, a test rider for Ducati, has been asked to step in for VR46's Fabio di Giannantonio, who is recovering from a recent shoulder operation.

Due to a late alteration in the location and lower temperatures, Michelin is providing its widest selection of the season with seven tire choices this weekend, consisting of four front and three rear options.

Updated regulations for tire pressure in 2024 dictate that riders must maintain a front tire pressure above a new minimum of 1.8 bar, down from the previous 1.88 bar, for 60% of a Grand Prix race distance, an increase from the previous requirement of 50%. For Sprint races, the requirement is set at 30% of

In a Grand Prix, if a competitor does not achieve the minimum requirements, they receive a time penalty of 16 seconds added after the race. For a Sprint or shorter race, the penalty is reduced to 8 seconds.

For two decades, Peter has been a presence in the racing paddock, witnessing the career of Valentino Rossi from start to finish. He is currently leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure and the challenges Marc Marquez faces due to his injuries.

Discover More

Join Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email inbox.

To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.

Current Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

It is prohibited to fully or partially reproduce text, images, or drawings in any manner.

Site Map

Crash.Net

"Unmatched since the legendary era of Jorge Lorenzo, Valentino Rossi, and Marc Marquez intrigue

"Next year promises excitement, with Marc riding a factory bike…"

The championship rivalry between Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin this season is unmatched since 2015.

Jack Miller, who raced alongside Jorge Lorenzo, Valentino Rossi, and Marc Marquez during their iconic battle nine years ago, has confirmed this information.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP updates, exclusive content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the race track to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

In 2015, Lorenzo clinched the title, narrowly surpassing a visibly upset Rossi, who accused Marquez of hindering his chances at securing the championship. The bitterness between them persists to this day.

Miller mentions that the clashes between Martin and Bagnaia throughout this season have been monumental.

"Clearly, with Marc's dominance fading in recent years, this season has likely been our strongest," stated the KTM rider.

The showdown between Pecco and Fabio Quartararo was also quite impressive.

"Undoubtedly, when it comes to championship battles, this is the most exciting since the clash between Vale and Jorge back in 2015."

"This is the top pick we've encountered in almost a decade."

"I'm confident that as time progresses, it will increasingly draw nearer."

"Next year promises to be engaging, as Marc transitions to a factory bike and numerous adjustments occur during the off-season."

"The championship is drawing nearer with each passing day."

"But [Bagnaia and Martin] stand out remarkably in their own unique class!

"Just take a glance at the Sepang race to observe how significantly ahead the leading duo were."

Heading into the final sprint race and grand prix, Martin has a 24-point lead over Bagnaia.

Should he emerge victorious in Saturday's sprint race, he will secure his first-ever championship title.

This will also signify a triumph for the Pramac team, a subsidiary team outperforming the very manufacturer they are associated with.

Miller's final competition with KTM

Miller was replaced by Pedro Acosta for the 2025 factory KTM position. Consequently, the team decided to introduce Enea Bastianini and Maverick Vinales as the fresh pairing for the upcoming season's revamped Tech3 squad.

Miller discovered relief through Pramac, set to transform into a Yamaha affiliate squad by 2025.

He mentioned regarding his final race with KTM in Barcelona this weekend: "I've experienced this on several occasions now."

"I am eager to conclude on a high note."

"I maintain a strong bond with every member of my team. Having collaborated with him for seven years, it's quite an extensive period to be associated with just one person.

"Undoubtedly, feelings will be involved. However, in this industry, when one opportunity ends, another begins."

"The charm of it is that this race track is quite compact, so we'll have plenty of opportunities to encounter him throughout the coming year!"

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

Discover More

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent updates, exclusive content, conversations, and special offers from the race circuit straight to your email.

For additional details, please consult our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

Copying or replicating text, photos, or illustrations in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Site Map

CrashNet

2024 Barcelona MotoGP Solidarity Event: Bagnaia Maintains Championship Aspirations with Sprint Victory Bagnaia Extends Championship Battle to Sunday's Grand Prix Following Sprint Triumph

Francesco Bagnaia maintained his chances for the 2024 MotoGP championship by winning the sprint race at the Solidarity Grand Prix, while current leader Jorge Martin finished in third place.

Martin led the standings with a 24-point advantage over Bagnaia. To secure the championship title, the Pramac rider had to earn only two more points than his competitor on Saturday.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email inbox.

For additional details, please review our Privacy Policy.

Bagnaia transformed his pole position into his seventh sprint victory of the season, while his teammate Enea Bastianini overtook Martin on the final lap, pushing Martin down to third place.

This implies that heading into Sunday's grand prix, the gap between the two stands at 19 points. For Martin to secure the championship title, he must finish in at least ninth place.

Starting from seventh position on the grid, Bastianini managed to take the lead as they approached the first turn. However, Bagnaia quickly maneuvered inside at Turn 3 to take charge of the race.

Martin secured the third position following the initial chaos, whereas Pedro Acosta, who for a short time was in the podium spots, lost the front fairing of his Tech3 GASGAS after colliding with Marc Marquez.

After the first two laps, Bagnaia held a 0.4-second advantage over Bastianini. However, Martin maneuvered his Pramac Ducati to overtake Bastianini and claim second place at Turn 1.

On the following lap, Bastianini reclaimed second position from Martin at the identical spot, as the duo exchanged speed during the fifth circuit.

Martin pushed Bastianini toward the outer edge of Turn 1, creating an opportunity for Alex Marquez, Aleix Espargaro, and Franco Morbidelli to join the action.

The dispute allowed Bagnaia to gain a 1.3-second advantage, which only decreased during the last laps as the current champion secured his crucial sprint win.

He crossed the finish line 0.942 seconds ahead of Bastianini, who managed to overtake Martin for second place at Turn 5 during the last lap.

Espargaro, who began the race in second place, finished fourth on the lead Aprilia bike. He marked his second-to-last MotoGP event by riding a cooldown lap in front of his local supporters on an old 125cc motorcycle.

After making a late error at Turn 10, Alex Marquez finished in fifth place, falling behind Bastianini.

He led Morbidelli (Pramac), as Marc Marquez secured seventh position following his initial lap clash with Acosta.

Marco Bezzecchi secured the eighth position for the VR46 Ducati team, while Brad Binder impressively moved up from 18th on the starting grid to finish in ninth place, just ahead of Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo, claiming the last point.

Johann Zarco was the highest-ranking Honda rider, finishing in 11th place. Meanwhile, Michele Pirro emerged victorious among the test riders for VR46, securing 21st position, just ahead of Honda's Stefan Bradl.

Acosta decided to retire following a first-lap collision with Marquez.

Complete results for the sprint race at the 2024 MotoGP Solidarity

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Headlines

Track Crash F1

Track Crash MotoGP

It is prohibited to reproduce the text, photos, or illustrations in whole or in part in any manner.

Site Layout

Crash.Net

Pecco Bagnaia discusses the Barcelona MotoGP incident involving Maverick Vinales: “I lost control at the front”

“I believe my error was in decelerating too much…”

Francesco Bagnaia led the way in MotoGP Practice for the upcoming Solidarity Grand Prix in Barcelona. However, his day was marked by an unusual incident – a crash during the practice start session following FP1.

Bagnaia lost control and crashed during the first turn's braking phase, as Maverick Vinales overtook him on the outside, causing his front wheel to lock.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP updates, unique content, conversations, and special offers straight from the track to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

The rider from Ducati Lenovo Team described how he experienced a bad start from the practice launch, and how he was startled to see Vinales appear on his outside while he was slowing down to approach the first turn.

Bagnaia explained he didn't catch the beginning due to his back tire losing traction, further stating he reduced his speed to protect his engine. "Our engine is operating at its maximum capacity, so I was cautious not to overwork it, as it's unpredictable," he mentioned.

"In hindsight, my error likely stemmed from decelerating too significantly. However, in fairness, when you're approaching at such high speeds, you naturally veer towards the inside, where there appeared to be ample room."

"I began to pick up on his approach and assumed he'd take the inner path. However, the moment I noticed him speeding along the outer edge, on the kerb, and with the bike swaying, I was filled with fear, leading to my front wheel sliding out just like that."

He elaborated: "The pressure increased by two bars on the lever, moving from 11 bars to 13 bars, and that's when I lost control."

Despite experiencing an unusual crash during the first practice session, Bagnaia concluded the day on a high note, topping the timesheets.

"I'm feeling positive because achieving a strong start, feeling confident, and performing effectively is my goal for every race weekend, especially on Fridays," he stated.

"We consistently moved forward, never retreating, with each effort propelling us ahead, which brings us great joy."

Pleased with the selection of tyres, I believe, thanks to Michelin's exceptional performance this time around — as always. However, this occasion stands out due to the variety of viable options they've provided us with, so I'm quite satisfied with that.

"I didn't get the chance to test out the hard compound front tire, which I noticed was making all the riders fast, except for Jorge Martin who switched it out."

"However, both Bezzecchi and Espargaro engaged in the time attack and displayed impressive speed, so if the conditions are favorable, I'll give it a shot tomorrow morning. Other than that, everything went smoothly."

Bagnaia was caught off guard by the state of the track, finding it unexpectedly slippery despite the cooler conditions compared to those of the Catalan Grand Prix in May.

Bagnaia expressed his belief that the speed was higher, attributing it to the colder conditions which typically lead to faster speeds, and also pointed to the very soft rear tire as a contributing factor.

"However, from the moment I began today, it was apparent that things had changed; there was less grip, necessitating adjustments to the motorcycle, especially since the conditions have significantly shifted [since May]."

Ultimately, Bagnaia concentrated on enhancing the aspect he pinpointed as his significant shortfall in 2024: Sprint races.

"I spent a lot of time riding with the smaller fuel tank of the Sprint, and my experience mirrors that of the Sprint because halting the bike posed a greater challenge, similar to what happens in the Sprint race.

"We made an effort to enhance the bike's performance and succeeded, which pleases me. However, I still require additional improvements."

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

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Bulletin

Receive the newest updates, behind-the-scenes content, exclusive conversations, and special offers from the racing circuit directly to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep up with Crash MotoGP

Reproducing, in whole or in part, any text, photos, or illustrations is strictly prohibited.

Site Navigation

Collision.Net

Barcelona Sprint: Updated 2024 MotoGP World Championship Rankings

Following the conclusion of the Barcelona Sprint race at the Circuit de Catalunya, which was the 20th and final round, the 2024 MotoGP World Championship standings have been revised.

The Solidarity Barcelona Grand Prix on Sunday will mark the third consecutive season in which the MotoGP championship is decided in the final race.

With 25 points left in the competition, Jorge Martin can secure the world championship title by placing in the top nine, regardless of whether Francesco Bagnaia claims victory in the race.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, special content, interviews, and offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.

Barcelona Sprint Race: Updated MotoGP World Championship Rankings for 2024

Text:

Names in bold indicate riders who still have a chance to win the title mathematically. If a rider maintains their position in the championship compared to the last race, this is noted as "=". A downward arrow followed by a number shows that a rider has fallen by that many spots in the championship standings. An asterisk denotes

I'm

For two decades, Peter has been a part of the paddock, witnessing the rise and fall of Valentino Rossi. He is currently at the center of the news regarding Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's struggles with injuries.

Stay Informed

Sign up for Our MotoGP Updates

Receive the newest MotoGP updates, special content, interviews, and offers straight from the paddock, directly to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

It is not allowed to fully or partially copy text, images, or drawings in any manner.

Website Map

Crash.Net

Unveiled: Ducati's test pilot sheds light on the enormous challenge Marc Marquez faces with the GP23

New insights into the hurdles Marc Marquez is confronting

Throughout the season, Marc Marquez has courageously battled using Ducati equipment that isn't quite on par with that of the leading pair, and the test rider for the manufacturer is able to shed light on the reasons behind this.

Riding for Gresini in the current season, Marquez has managed to secure victories and achieve upward mobility to the official team for 2025, where he will benefit from having access to the newest Ducati model.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the most recent MotoGP developments, unique content, conversations, and special offers straight from the race track to your email.

For additional details, refer to our Privacy Policy.

However, he trails behind Pecco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin, who ride factory-spec Ducatis that outperform the GP23.

During Friday's practice session for the Solidarity Barcelona MotoGP, Marquez secured the eighth quickest time. Michele Pirro, Ducati's test rider and wildcard entrant, was the ninth Ducati to hit the track, finishing in 22nd place.

Pirro is currently operating a VR46 GP23, but in the coming week, he will proceed with the advancement of the GP25, a model that Marquez will have access to for next year's competitions.

Pirro corroborated the observations of other GP23 competitors, noting that the front end exhibits a notable change from the 2022 model.

"Pirro remarked, "Indeed, returning to the '23 bike after such an extended period was a fascinating experience."

"I am returning to skilled cyclists because, when it comes to solo test rides, it's a whole different scenario."

"The 2024 model of the bike has undergone several changes. I'm noticing my experience with it is getting better."

"Next week's examination of the 2025 bike promises to be intriguing. Testing within the same week offers advantages."

This weekend, Marco Bezzecchi, who is Pirro's teammate at VR46, expressed concerns that the rear of the GP23 is causing the front to be pushed out.

Pirro concurred, stating, "The issue lies in the fact that, unlike before, these tires offer increased traction. This causes the bike to lean into a turn and exert pressure on the front.

Steering is challenging. The front requires additional reinforcement. Such behavior is unusual for the 2024 motorcycle.

"The issue originated from the tyre that came with the newer bike from the start."

Marquez has significantly outperformed the other three GP23 riders this season, generating excitement regarding his potential achievements riding Ducati's most recent model bike with their factory team next year.

This weekend in Barcelona, Pirro is taking the helm of a Ducati that's a year old, marking his first time on the bike in over two years. This experience is providing him with a genuine insight into the challenges Marquez has been tackling throughout the season.

"Pirro mentioned on Friday in Barcelona that he attempted to apply the brakes while going straight."

"I maintained the heat, yet quickly lost the lead."

"When I applied the brakes, the front gave out. It's astounding. We're pushing the boundaries due to the cold.

"As the final race approaches, numerous competitors are optimistic, having spent a year getting accustomed to their bikes."

"Overall, this year, I sense that I'm not here for the competition. My speed is decent. However, when it's like this morning, the distance between me and the lead rider isn't that significant."

"However, when the cyclists exert effort, I find it challenging."

In an exam, maintaining a steady speed is beneficial, but when you accelerate, you struggle to control the circumstances.

"The competition promises to be captivating because of this. Striving to the utmost and trailing behind other competitors…"

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

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP developments, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers delivered straight to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Copying, in whole or in part, of text, photos, or images is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Site Index

CrashDotNet

Jorge Martin Advocates for Resurfacing at the Barcelona MotoGP Track for Enhanced Performance

"The circuit isn't inherently dangerous, given our expertise as professional racers; however, we navigate through…"

Anticipations are high for increased speeds at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya this weekend, as the cooler conditions of the Solidarity GP in November are believed to offer better racing conditions than the typically warmer early-summer period usually reserved for the Catalan Grand Prix.

Yet, traction this weekend has proven to be more challenging than during May's Catalan Grand Prix, with Jorge Martin pointing out that the track requires resurfacing—not for safety reasons, but to enhance the spectacle.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive up-to-date MotoGP information, exclusive content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the track to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

"Martin believes they have no intention or strategy for a comeback, describing it as the least favorable circuit of the season."

"The issue isn't about safety, as we're skilled riders who adjust our speed accordingly, but rather, the problem lies in the reduced excitement and competitive edge due to insufficient traction. The current condition makes it nearly impossible to pass other riders or effectively utilize the rear tyre, making riding a challenging task. For the benefit of both the spectacle and the sport, I believe resurfacing is a necessary step."

Martin considers Barcelona to be a more "hazardous" circuit to navigate during this period, especially when contrasted with the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. Typically, the latter venue serves as the season's closing race; however, due to recent flood events in Valencia, it was not feasible this year.

"He believes that in Valencia, the traction is significantly improved, making it a safer option compared to this location," he stated.

"However, I believe Michelin did an excellent job by providing a significantly larger quantity of tyres, which proves to be extremely beneficial for the timed runs. Yet, it's peculiar, especially since it introduces a new variable."

Martin expressed feeling odd, even though he maintained a "good" rhythm. Even with reduced traction, Martin managed to keep up a respectable speed, ending the day in fourth place overall. This was after he had to abandon his second attempt at a fast lap due to correcting a front-end slide at the fifth turn.

"Martin described the day as unusual," he reflected. "It seemed like we were given the usual amount of time, yet we had to test a significantly higher number of tires. So, in my experience, it felt quite chaotic, with an overwhelming amount of details to process in a limited period.

"Indeed, the timetable was somewhat packed, yet I'm inclined to focus on the bright side. Without a doubt, there are both ups and downs, but on the whole, I believe I have a solid foundation: my pace is competitive, and the speed is present; it was just during the second run in the attempt to set a time that I fell short."

"However, my sensation has somewhat deteriorated; there's an odd feeling, like I'm having difficulty maintaining traction with the back tyre, and there's also a lack of confidence in the front tyre, especially when turning left. We're addressing this issue."

"I believe I've figured out our destination for tomorrow. I was aware of the direction, and tomorrow, I'll trust my gut feeling."

Martin experienced a few close calls in the afternoon, with one being particularly noteworthy.

"We're always pushing the boundaries. During a time trial, that edge feels even closer. I believe I made a solid effort in getting to grips with the various tyre options — I experimented with all the front tyres, except for the hard compound, which no one used. Interestingly, I was the sole person to test the hard compound for the rear. Thus, I reckon I've gathered valuable insights. Perhaps I wasn't consistently the quickest, but I consistently ranked within the top four or five, which aligns with my goal: to contend for a podium spot. Aiming for the podium is a realistic goal for me, one that helps keep me focused and in the right mindset, so that's what I'll strive for."

Drag of the left shoulder at turn five becomes a spectacle

As MotoGP makes its way to Barcelona, spectators eagerly gather at turn five, looking forward to seeing Martin graze his left shoulder against the kerb.

Martin mentions that it's purely a stunning sight, nothing more.

"He admitted, "Touching the shoulder is somewhat for show, truthfully."

"When I'm riding flawlessly and focusing hard, I stay very near the shoulder. However, if I make contact with the shoulder, it's somewhat playful, so it doesn't create a major problem."

Martin's remarkable maneuver at turn five on Friday occurred during his last time trial in Practice, where he impressively saved the situation.

The Pramac Ducati competitor detailed that the challenge was due to the intricate nature of the Barcelona circuit, its impact on the motorcycle's electronic configurations, and the duration required to navigate from the tenth corner in one lap to the fifth in the following one.

"Typically, we create a single map for every track; however, in this case, we're required to produce a distinct map for each turn, which is insane," Martin explained.

"The braking system, acceleration, and front lift vary significantly in different situations, making it quite challenging to manage. We often face issues with the back end sliding while braking. It occasionally regains traction and propels forward, which varies from turn to turn."

"Thus, navigating turn five poses a challenge due to the reduced temperature of the tyre, leading me to enter the curve at a higher speed. I attempted to decelerate slightly later than usual, which caused the rear tyre to react and exert additional pressure on me, resulting in the loss of control at the front."

In August 2024, Alex became a part of the Crash.net crew after spending two years at Visordown, where he focused on reporting both consumer and racing motorcycle news.

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent updates, behind-the-scenes content, exclusive conversations, and special offers from the world of MotoGP directly in your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Copying or replicating the text, photos, or illustrations, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Site Index

CrashDotNet

Pedro Acosta and Augusto Fernandez's collision at Tech3 leads to a frightening incident

An incident involving team members triggered a stoppage early in Friday's practice session.

The Solidarity Barcelona MotoGP season's final opening session started dramatically as teammates Pedro Acosta and Augusto Fernandez from GASGAS Tech3 team crashed into each other, causing the session to be halted with red flags.

Fernandez tried to overtake Acosta on the outside as Acosta was trailing behind Brad Binder at Turn 5. However, the newcomer didn't notice Fernandez nearby, leading to a collision between them as they exited the turn.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive all the newest updates, exclusive content, conversations, and special offers from the racetrack straight to your email.

For additional details, please consult our Privacy Policy.

The duo crashed, resulting in damage to an air barrier and necessitating a halt to the session. Thankfully, they were not injured and managed to return to the track for the resumption.

"Fernandez remarked, "It felt odd. It was quite alarming, yet after my conversation with Pedro, everything turned out fine in the end."

"He didn't catch me watching him lift the bike, and I went unnoticed by him.

"The individuals leading were sluggish in making a left turn, prompting me to move towards the right side. This maneuver wasn't an attempt to overtake or get ahead; it was simply to steer clear of them."

"I was sprinting along the outer track when we collided during the pick-up."

"An ordinary event, though hardly the perfect beginning to the weekend. Additionally, I had an accident later in the day, making it quite a challenging day."

Acosta, managing to recover and secure a second-place finish in the morning session, dismissed the event without much concern.

"He mentioned, 'Every possible scenario that could unfold in that moment did unfold. We're fine. It wasn't anybody's fault. It was due to a mix of circumstances. So, let's just move on from it… These things occur!'"

Marc Marquez, trailing closely behind the duo, swiftly maneuvered to avoid the mishap and lifted his hand to alert fellow riders of the unfolding situation.

"The Gresini rider described the incident as unfortunate and perilous, attributing the error to Augusto, as he believed Acosta wasn't aware of his presence."

"However, since they are on the same team, I believe there won't be any issues!"

The circumstances were quite odd as everyone was moving at an unusually slow pace.

Pirro experienced a collision at the same turn during the opening lap, leading to a slowdown among the competitors, while Augusto took an ambitious position on the outer edge.

"In racing, such incidents occur. Fortunately, they're on the same team, so there's no major turmoil!"

Acosta wrapped up the day ranked ninth, standing out as the sole KTM competitor to secure a spot directly in Qualifying 2. However, he was notably uneasy due to the chilly and slick conditions.

"Acosta mentioned, "The grip remains unchanged from what we experienced back in May. The issue now is that it's become even simpler to lose control of the front."

"The lap time didn't improve, there was even more spinning, and the motion increased. Given this, it's hard to highlight any positives regarding the grip."

The reasons behind Catalunya circuit being described as having "the poorest traction throughout the season" remain unclear.

"He mentioned that it's hard to determine because their surface lacks bumps, cracks, or numerous dark spots. However, the issue is the absence of traction," he explained.

"It's rather peculiar, especially since the track had been repaved not too long ago.

"Then there are circuits like the ones in Japan, which have existed for a long time and offer significant traction."

"It's odd to examine, yet it remains consistent for everyone."

Acosta mentioned, "Currently, the main concern is deciding on the tyre selection."

"Given that we're dealing with the standard three fronts and two rears, there's still a significant amount of work ahead of us."

"Picture this: four in the front and three in the back!"

The upcoming weekend in Barcelona marks the last event for Acosta and Fernandez with the Tech3 team.

Next season, Acosta is set to join the factory KTM team, while it is anticipated that Fernandez will take on a role as a test rider for Yamaha.

For two decades, Peter has witnessed the ups and downs in the paddock, including Valentino Rossi's career milestones. He is leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with his injuries.

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP stories, behind-the-scenes exclusives, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the racetrack to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Further Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

Reproducing the content, whether entirely or partially, including texts, photos, or images, is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Website Directory

Collision.Net

Maverick Vinales on the Pecco practice start situation: "There was enough space"

"After witnessing the collision, my initial thought was 'perhaps I made contact with him'. However, this notion changed after viewing the replay."

Maverick Vinales maintained that his actions were completely normal during the practice start event that led to championship hopeful Francesco Bagnaia's crash following the chequered flag on Friday morning at the final Barcelona MotoGP race.

Vinales executed an overtaking maneuver on a slower Bagnaia in the braking area of Turn 1 from the outside.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers straight from the track to your email.

For additional details, refer to our Privacy Policy.

Though they didn't touch, Bagnaia was taken aback by the maneuver, clenched his front brake, and went down.

Bagnaia admitted, "Slowing down that much was my error, but truly, when you're coming in at such a high speed, you instinctively head towards the inside."

"I began listening to him, thinking 'Alright, he's going to move inward'."

"The moment I noticed him approaching rapidly from the outside, riding on the curb, and with the bike in motion, fear struck me, leading to my loss of control over the front like that."

Vinales emphasized that the goal of a practice start extends beyond merely taking off from the starting line; it also involves identifying the precise point at which to begin braking for the first turn.

"The Aprilia competitor emphasized, "For me, the blame isn't the issue. Ultimately, the purpose of a practice start is to simulate the real thing, which means approaching the first turn as if you're in a race, attempting to deactivate [the holeshot mechanisms just like a genuine start], and therefore braking later."

"I noticed Pecco was positioned centrally, moving at a slow pace. The reason was unclear to me. In an attempt to steer clear of him, I maneuvered to the exterior, ensuring I left a gap equivalent to about two motorcycles. I didn't actually come anywhere near him."

Upon witnessing the collision, I thought to myself, 'perhaps I made contact with him', I'm not certain.

"However, upon reviewing the footage, it became clear there was ample space. It seems like he perhaps panicked or the like. He ended up squeezing the front brake too hard, causing the front tire to lock up."

Bagnaia, aiming to overcome Jorge Martin's significant 24-point lead in the championship this weekend, eventually ended up leading the Friday afternoon rankings, with Vinales placing sixth.

"Vinales expressed satisfaction at making it to Q2, considering it a positive outcome. However, he faced an obstacle during his final time attack, encountering two yellow flags, which prevented him from completing the lap as intended."

"In my opinion, our competitiveness has increased since May."

Is Vinales, the sole racer to overcome the Ducatis in a grand prix this year thanks to his win at COTA, capable of challenging them in this weekend's concluding RS-GP event?

"I'd love to say yes, but it's uncertain. It's the usual scenario – based on today's lap times, I feel confident about competing with them. However, what happens tomorrow remains to be seen," he mentioned. "I'm unsure about the progress they might achieve."

Team member Aleix Espargaro secured the third quickest time.

For two decades, Peter has witnessed the motorsport landscape evolve, including Valentino Rossi's rise and eventual departure. He's currently leading coverage on Suzuki's withdrawal from the competition and the ongoing health concerns surrounding Marc Marquez.

Discover More

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP insights, exclusive content, conversations, and special offers straight from the track to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Current Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

Reproducing the text, photos, or illustrations fully or partially is strictly prohibited in any format.

Website Directory

Crash.Net

Johann Zarco delivers an outstanding lap to advance to Q2 in Barcelona MotoGP

"I'm extremely pleased with the progress made in this afternoon's practice, and I'm hopeful that I can continue on this trajectory…"

Johann Zarco secured a remarkable fifth place on Friday during the MotoGP Solidarity Grand Prix in Barcelona, attributing his success to what he described as "one of the best laps" he's had in the 2024 season.

Zarco has qualified for Q2 multiple times this season, but this occasion marks only the third instance he's advanced directly from Friday's practice sessions.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP stories, behind-the-scenes exclusives, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the circuit to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

"Zarco described his performance as potentially one of the best laps after ranking fifth in speed on Friday afternoon."

"I believe the race in Thailand was impressive, trailing behind Marc [Marquez], and another notable one in Aragon, following Jorge [Martin].

"Indeed, securing a strong lap time before the final attempt was significant, and while there was room for improvement on the last set of tires – potentially shaving off a few tenths – some errors prevented me from doing so. Nonetheless, this bodes well for tomorrow."

"Observing the temperature is crucial, as gaining certainty on the left side can be challenging. Attempting it might yield unexpected results, so I prefer not to risk underperformance and waste valuable practice time."

"I'm quite pleased with the afternoon's Practice performance, and I'm hopeful I can maintain this momentum."

Zarco was so confident in his speed over a single lap that he believed he could secure a spot in the top six during qualifying, despite his performance not appearing as promising on worn tires.

"He mentioned that the first two rows present a chance, which could work wonders for the future."

"Subsequently, as the tire wears down, there's a significant alteration in the motorcycle's performance. I'm uncertain about finding a fix by tomorrow, but accelerating and then managing the motorcycle is an aspect I enjoy. I'm optimistic about handling it successfully tomorrow."

Since the beginning of the year, the combination of Zarco and the RC213V has seen enhancements in terms of both rider performance and technical advancements.

"Zarco mentioned, 'The bike has improved since our initial trip to Catalunya earlier this year.'"

"Now, I'm making more effective use of the bike's strengths, and it's evident that the bike has gotten better."

"Following the Misano race, we made progress in navigating quick turns better, and now, when trailing behind another rider, it's noticeable that keeping up has become feasible — something that was out of the question at the start of the season."

"Initially, the chilly weather made me concerned about not being able to fully exploit the bike's advantages. However, this afternoon, as conditions improved, I believe I managed to ride quite effectively, which has left me quite pleased. This is because I hadn't anticipated performing so well, but it certainly aligns with my goals."

Mir: Zarco's Speed Not Exclusive to Barcelona

"Zarco's ability to deliver a quick lap isn't limited to this track," Mir observed. "He has shown this capacity elsewhere for some reason."

"For myself, particularly, this is the domain where I face the greatest difficulty due to the issues we encounter with vibration, whereas for him, it’s the aspect he finds less challenging.

"Thus, we're attempting to grasp how he manages to accomplish something currently beyond our abilities, and each time I push myself further, I end up falling."

"Thus, it's essential to grasp that, despite the oddities, this bicycle presents numerous unforeseen issues causing an unusual riding experience. It seems to suit him quite well, particularly with a fresh tire, but it's definitely not suitable for me."

"We need to either enhance the bicycle or I must adjust myself. Currently, I am unable to do so."

In August 2024, Alex became a part of the Crash.net crew after spending two years at Visordown, where he was involved in reporting on both consumer motorcycles and racing news.

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP developments, behind-the-scenes exclusives, one-on-one conversations, and special offers straight from the track to your email.

For additional details, refer to our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

Recreating the content, whether fully or partially, including text, images, or illustrations, is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Site Index

Crash.Net