Pramac MotoGP leader feels ‘a decade older’ after thrilling Bagnaia/Martin showdown in Sepang

“This is an unforgettable moment that I’ll cherish going forward”

Gino Borsoi, the head of Pramac's MotoGP squad, commented that the intense duel between Jorge Martin and Francesco Bagnaia during the Malaysian Grand Prix was so nerve-wracking it could "effortlessly shave off a decade."

In a battle for the championship title, Martin and Bagnaia delivered the most exhilarating head-to-head competition of 2024, exchanging the lead position 13 times within the initial three laps.

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Bagnaia emerged victorious in the grand prix at Sepang, closing the gap on Martin's lead in the championship to just 24 points, with only one round remaining.

In their 2024 championship race, this marked the initial occasion where the two leading competitors truly clashed, sparking significant enthusiasm within the Ducati leadership team.

Borsoi conveyed to motogp.com, "It was an absolutely amazing race, especially enjoyable in the early stages.

"For us, it was a significant emotional struggle. They kicked off the race remarkably well."

Witnessing these individuals constantly battle it out at every turn and down the primary straightaways was truly enjoyable.

"I'm thrilled to be here. It's a delight to spend time alongside Jorge in Pramac's garage, as this will certainly be a treasured memory to reflect on in my career's retrospective."

"In such a competition, it's common to feel a decade slip away, yet they are enjoyable to watch."

Ducati's chief executive, Gigi Dall'Igna, confessed he 'couldn't bear to watch the television' as Bagnaia and Martin went head-to-head.

"He expressed how challenging it was to convey the feeling."

"First and foremost, the initial three laps were incredibly well-executed by the team; they delivered an exceptional performance, and I find it too remarkable to even watch on TV."

They cycled as though it was their inaugural race of the season. Truly astonishing.

"Undoubtedly, Jorge holds a significant lead in the points tally, making it a tough challenge for Pecco. However, Pecco must continue to battle fiercely, with the same tenacity he showed today and has always demonstrated."

Ducati team leader Davide Tardozzi believes the recent race has silenced doubters of MotoGP's present competition quality, and clearly demonstrates that either of the two title contenders is a worthy champion.

"He stated, 'This is the correct response for those who believe overtaking in MotoGP is currently impossible.'"

"However, I believe that Pecco and Jorge truly highlighted our sport in an incredible manner, especially during the initial three laps which they executed marvelously."

"I believe it demonstrates their championship quality. The team that secures the title will have earned it, while the runner-up should still be considered a champion in their own right."

"I was deeply engaged and the intensity was at its peak. I believe we must give applause to Jorge, because not everyone in his situation would have performed at such a level."

"In my view, Jorge truly embodies the spirit of a warrior. He's earned his position at the forefront of the championship and is an outstanding motorcyclist."

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Pedro Acosta Redefines Expectations for MotoGP Newcomers

"I believed achieving this in the current year was out of reach…"

Team leader Wilco Zeelenberg of Trackhouse Racing confessed he believed it was unattainable for a newcomer in MotoGP to secure a podium finish this year, until Pedro Acosta shattered his expectations.

Acosta, who clinched the Moto2 world championship last year, was highly anticipated to make a significant impact in MotoGP. The 20-year-old racer has been making waves in the grand prix circuit since his initial Moto3 appearance in 2021.

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In only his second race of the 2024 season with Tech3 GASGAS, Acosta achieved a top-three finish and has since secured five podium positions on Sundays. Presently, he ranks fifth in the standings, marginally leading over his KTM teammate Brad Binder.

In the upcoming season, the MotoGP ranks will be joined by three newcomers: the current Moto2 titleholder Ai Ogura, Somkiat Chantra who has clinched victory in two Moto2 races, and Fermin Aldeguer, who boasts eight Moto2 wins.

Ogura's unexpected transition to MotoGP with Trackhouse Aprilia has proven to be a highly beneficial agreement since its inception last summer, placing the Japanese rider under a great deal of anticipation.

Zeelenberg, set to depart from his position at Trackhouse by the close of 2024, feels it's unreasonable to anticipate victories from newcomers. However, Acosta has redefined the potential achievements for a rookie in the field.

"He informed TNT Sport that it's unrealistic to anticipate a victory in their first race given their newcomer status."

"They must remain committed to their training, progressing gradually. Observing Pedro's journey illustrates how challenging it is to achieve a podium finish in the inaugural season, yet how swiftly it can happen."

"I believed that this year, achieving it was out of reach, given how the championship unfolded, in terms of both performance and speed, yet Pedro managed to accomplish it."

"Thus, it's feasible for a newcomer to secure a spot on the podium in their debut year."

"It's evident, this year it occurred. I enjoy beginning with newcomers, as it allows me to impart all of my knowledge and experience to prevent them from making errors, while also assisting them in learning how to progressively handle these large motorcycles."

Zeelenberg remarked, "Ai truly stands out. Firstly, he's been in the running for the championship, so although he's been aware of his bike, his approach was 'let me prioritize winning the championship first'."

Hence, it's crucial to acknowledge, and indeed, he succeeded. He now possesses the title securely. Therefore, upon arriving on the new rockets, there's a palpable sense of anxiety and nervousness among everyone, with a noticeable tremble.

"Thus, it takes them half a season to truly reach their peak performance and get into optimal condition. Certainly, they'll gain additional insights, but half a season is essential for them to fully utilize what they have at their disposal."

Zeelenberg points out that the most significant challenge new riders face upon entering MotoGP is adapting to the use of electronics, an aspect not heavily emphasized in their prior racing experiences.

"Initially, I'm quite fond of that direction to take, although it's not as simple to achieve," he mentioned regarding newcomers taking up positions in MotoGP.

Naturally, these novice riders, as they transition from rookies to a fresh category – notably MotoGP – must acclimate to the electronic systems. They have honed their abilities and talents throughout their entire career without the aid of electronics: lacking traction control, anti-wheelie features, and other crucial elements for a MotoGP motorcycle.

Essentially, their reliance must be placed on the electronic devices, which is no simple task.

"The skill and quickness are present, but the ability to accelerate while ensuring the motorcycle doesn't eject them is the primary challenge they need to tackle first."

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Pedro Acosta Alters Expectations for MotoGP Newcomers

"I believed it was no longer feasible this year…"

Trackhouse Racing's team leader, Wilco Zeelenberg, confessed he believed it was unattainable for a newcomer in MotoGP to secure a podium finish this year, until Pedro Acosta proved otherwise.

Acosta, who clinched the Moto2 world title last year, was expected to make a significant impact in MotoGP. The 20-year-old has been making waves in the paddock ever since he first entered the grand prix scene in Moto3 in 2021.

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In only his second race of the 2024 season with Tech3 GASGAS, Acosta achieved a podium finish and has since secured five Sunday podiums. This performance places him slightly above his KTM colleague Brad Binder, ranking him fifth in the championship standings.

In 2024, the MotoGP ranks are set to be bolstered by the arrival of three newcomers: Ai Ogura, who clinched the Moto2 title, Somkiat Chantra, with two Moto2 grand prix victories under his belt, and Fermin Aldeguer, an eight-time victor in Moto2 races.

Ogura's unexpected transition to MotoGP with Trackhouse Aprilia has proven to be a remarkably successful agreement since its inception during the summer, placing the Japanese racer under a significant spotlight of anticipation.

Zeelenberg, set to depart from his position at Trackhouse by the close of 2024, holds the view that it's unreasonable to anticipate victories from newcomers. However, Acosta's performance has redefined the potential achievements for a newcomer in the field.

"He told TNT Sport that it's unrealistic for them to anticipate winning their first race as a newcomer; that's not their role."

"They must continue cycling and gradually acquire skills. Observing Pedro's journey illustrates how swift progress can be, achieving a podium finish in the inaugural season is quite challenging."

"I believed that this year, it was no longer feasible, given the way the championship unfolded, in terms of both performance and speed, yet Pedro managed to pull it off."

"Thus, it's feasible for a newcomer to secure a spot on the podium in their debut year."

"It's obvious, it occurred this year. I'm fond of beginning with newcomers, as it allows me to share all of my knowledge and skills to prevent errors, while also guiding them to progress gradually on these powerful motorcycles."

Zeelenberg remarked, “I believe Ai is quite unique. Primarily, he's been in the race for the championship, so he's had his bike in sight, yet he was like, ‘first, let me concentrate on my championship’.

"Thus, I believe it's significant, and indeed, he has achieved it. He now holds the title. Consequently, when they embark on these new rockets, there's a palpable sense of apprehension and nervousness among them; they're essentially trembling."

"Thus, it takes them half a season to reach their peak form and achieve the highest performance possible. Certainly, they will gain additional knowledge beyond that, but half a season is required for them to fully leverage what the package offers."

According to Zeelenberg, the most significant challenge new riders face upon entering MotoGP is adapting to the use of electronics, a skill they typically haven't developed in their careers up until that moment.

"Initially, he expressed a fondness for pursuing that route, yet he acknowledged the difficulty rookies face in securing MotoGP positions," he commented.

Naturally, when these inexperienced riders transition from beginners to a higher category like MotoGP, they must familiarize themselves with the electronic systems. Throughout their career, they've relied solely on their raw talent and abilities, without the aid of electronic features such as traction control or anti-wheelie technology, which play a crucial role in handling a MotoGP motorcycle.

They must place their confidence in electronic devices, which is not a simple task.

"The skill and quickness are present, yet the key challenge lies in mastering control to prevent being thrown off the motorcycle. This is the primary focus they need to address."

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Luca Marini Reflects on Challenging Honda Introduction: “Despite Finishing Eighth Last Year, It Left Me Unsatisfied”

The Italian Finds Silver Linings in His Difficult Initial Season with Honda in MotoGP

Luca Marini expressed greater satisfaction in securing the 20th spot in the 2024 MotoGP rankings with Honda than he did finishing eighth in the 2023 standings with VR46 Ducati.

The Italian rider has been selected to take over for Marc Marquez at Gresini for the 2024 season, stepping into the factory Honda team, yet has faced a challenging season on the RC213V.

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After 19 races, Marini has only accumulated 14 points, with his highest placement being 12th at both the San Marino and Thailand Grands Prix. This positions him at the bottom of the Honda team rankings, in 22nd place in the overall championship.

His performance in the 2023 season with the VR46 Ducati team, where he finished eighth in the standings with 201 points and stood on the podium twice in Grand Prix races, was significantly different.

Despite facing challenges with the evolving Honda motorcycle, Marini expresses greater satisfaction now than in 2023, stating his enthusiasm stems from being involved in a project that has significant potential for the future.

"He expressed confidence to the official MotoGP podcast last month, stating that if he manages to execute every move correctly and enhance both his skills and the motorcycle, success will inevitably follow."

"Currently, whether I score two, zero, or 10 points, it doesn't change anything for me. Last season, despite ending up in eighth place, I wasn't satisfied."

"This year, I'm ending up in 20th place, but I'm more content this time around because I'm involved in a promising project that has the potential to compete for the championship in the coming years."

"I'm really optimistic about what lies ahead for me in this space. It's promising, and my goal is to continue dedicating myself to progress and enhance my skills daily through time spent cycling, as I believe we can achieve remarkable things."

Honda racers have experienced a demanding year beyond the regular racing calendar, engaging in several independent tests as the brand from Japan aims to improve its standings.

Marini mentions that he has taken his Honda out for a ride nearly every week of 2024, always doing so with joy.

"Coming into the final stretch of the season, it wasn't fatigue that weighed on me, but rather stress. Looking back, it feels like I was on the bike every single week of the year, or very close to it," he shared.

"Admittedly, it's challenging, yet I always approach it with a smile and give it my all. Ultimately, I consider myself extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to ride a MotoGP bike, even if it's on a weekly basis, as I cherish every moment spent on the bike."

"Indeed, it's an incredible sensation. I'm making an effort to savor the moment."

"Certainly, completing races and gathering additional data is crucial for engineers, as it provides them with more information to examine. This is because when you only do a brief stint in practice, you only have two or three laps worth of data to analyze."

"Completing an entire race gives you 27. Thus, it’s a different quantity of information."

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The distinction in equipment for the 2024 MotoGP championship battle

How do the Ducati motorcycles of Jorge Martin and Francesco Bagnaia vary?

A Ducati competitor riding a GP24 will secure the 2024 MotoGP championship, with Jorge Martin and Francesco Bagnaia set to battle it out in the concluding race in Barcelona.

The 2024 season marked an exceptional period for Ducati, showcasing the most commanding performance by a manufacturer in contemporary times.

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Up until now, in the 2024 season, out of 19 grand prix races held, victories have been secured in all but one. Remarkably, riders aboard the GP24 have clinched 15 of these wins.

A Comparison of Jorge Martin and Pecco Bagnaia: A Look at Their Remarkable Seasons 📊 Applauding their impressive performances in MotoGP 👏#MotoGP

The Italian brand has also claimed victory in all the championships to date, securing the riders' title for the third consecutive year.

Heading into the final race next weekend, Bagnaia leads Martin by a margin of 24 points, having secured victory in 10 grand prix events compared to Martin's three wins with the Pramac team.

Ducati has continued to provide consistent backing to both of its riders in 2024, halting further enhancements to the GP24 during the latter part of the season to guarantee an even playing field for the championship showdown.

However, there are minor variations in the equipment used by each cyclist.

"According to Michael Laverty from TNT Sport during an analysis in Malaysia, a quick glance reveals that Pecco Bagnaia has a preference for the older fork model."

"It features a reduced stroke length, and there's noticeably less tubing visible at the top."

Jorge Martin might display a 45mm setting, which boils down to individual choice regarding overall geometry and the rider's stature.

"Examining the aerodynamic design reveals it's the same. Despite there being two options, both Pecco and Jorge opted for the version featuring downwash ducts, as they find it effective."

"Engines are the same across the board. Regarding the ECU, it's understood that every team along this pitlane shares identical units as per the championship regulations."

Last weekend at Sepang, Bagnaia mentioned that since Friday at the Spanish Grand Prix, he reverted to using the previous model of front forks on his motorcycle and has made no alterations to it since then.

Laverty highlights that the main distinction between the two lies in the level of engineering assistance available in the factory and Pramac areas.

"He further explained that the key distinction arises once the engineers connect with the motorcycle."

"Thus, when examining the MotoGP motorcycles closely, one finds that each component is equipped with a potentiometer, capturing data from the machines."

"When you engage a lever: engage the clutch brake. Engaging the brake lever ensures the information is logged."

"There's a vast array of channels available. These can even be customized, establishing unique channels. Thus, when you have a platform with rapid lean angle inertia, for instance, causing the engine to accelerate slightly faster, you can compare these channels against each other. That’s the point at which the engineer steps in."

Peering into the rear area of the garage during the overseas races reveals a stark contrast: a group of 10 to 20 Ducati engineers on one side, compared to the smaller contingent of skilled engineers within the independent team. It's this disparity in support and resources, particularly in data analysis, that truly sets them apart.

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MotoGP launches: "There are four leading options for gaining an initial advantage…"

"It all comes down to figuring out the best strategy… by choosing the most challenging position at the starting line and discovering how much you can push the limits!"

Riders in MotoGP frequently spinning the rear tire while performing practice starts has been a common occurrence throughout the season.

Instead of just assuming too much traction on an unclean circuit, the connection between initial wheelspin and front holeshot mechanisms was verified during the latest Thai Grand Prix.

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Following an intense start to his practice on Friday, KTM rider Jack Miller commented:

"Miller elaborated, stating, 'Our intention was to experiment with the ‘110’ [holeshot] mechanism. Personally, I'm not very keen on using the 110 device because the moment you lower the bike's front that much, the rear begins to spin almost right away.'"

Buriram experienced the season's first rain-affected Grand Prix, where certain riders chose not to engage the front mechanism, aiming to enhance the initial traction from the back instead.

"At the beginning, I didn't have the front device attached, as the team advised against it, citing concerns about potential spinning," Enea Bastianini from Ducati explained. "However, it turned out that riders who utilized the front device had a competitive edge at the start."

At the outset: Positioned on the Buriram starting line, Bezzecchi's GP23 is noticeably elevated compared to the factory GP24s in front of him.

Under conditions of strong traction, the primary factor limiting performance at the start of a MotoGP race is the extent of wheelie. Therefore, lowering the motorcycle as much as possible (both the front and the back) proves advantageous.

The capability to lower varies based not just on the manufacturer but also on the specifications of the bike, with the latest GP24 Ducatis featuring a noticeably more advanced lowering mechanism compared to the previous GP23 models.

However, when the traction decreases because of a filthy racetrack or a damp surface, the focus shifts from managing wheelies to controlling wheelspin. This is particularly noticeable with MotoGP motorcycles now being set so low, which minimizes weight distribution to the rear.

Jack Miller: "There are four choices available"

During the event at Sepang last Friday, Miller revealed that KTM is equipped with various compression sizes for its front holeshot device, tailored to accommodate varying levels of grip.

"Clearly, it's related to the front end, specifically the initial start mechanism. We're experimenting with various lengths of stroke," Miller explained, referring to the wheelspin observed by riders during their practice starts.

"I believe we're looking at four choices here: a 110, a 100, a 90, and finally an 80. It's really about figuring out which one will be effective."

Clearly, when the traction is good, you press down on it as if you're in a drag race.

"In conditions where there's less grip, it's beneficial to adjust by adding a bit more weight to the back, perhaps moving it to around 80 or 90."

"It's all about recognizing the effective strategies for that circuit, by selecting the most challenging position on the track and figuring out what advantages you can exploit!"

The struggle to maintain equilibrium between front-end lift and wheelspin might be the reason why Ducati frontrunners Jorge Martin and Francesco Bagnaia have faced difficulties with ineffective practice starts, yet often manage to refine their take-offs by the time the race begins.

At the Sepang circuit, Miller disclosed that his motorcycle was equipped with an updated rear ride-height mechanism, which is activated when approaching the extensive straight sections of the track.

"Miller mentioned that they received a modification for the ride-height device, a request made since last year's Phillip Island, just in time for the final two races of the season. Additionally, he experienced a fortunate incident during Sunday's race at Turn 2, where his helmet got caught in Fabio Quartararo’s rear wheel."

"The goal is to adjust the speed slightly, aiming to decelerate the ride-height mechanism to prevent putting too much pressure on the tire when leaving."

"Entering each of the straightaways feels great. We're not experiencing a strong jolt that leads to bouncing or spinning, which is certainly a plus."

Brad Binder remarked, "You're shaving off half-a-second from 0-100km/h."

Under the upcoming technical regulations set for 2027, all launch (holeshot) and ride-height mechanisms will be prohibited.

"In an interview with Crash.net, Miller's colleague Brad Binder expressed, "I'm surely going to feel their absence in the beginning."

"They genuinely transform the bicycles into racing machines. The truth is they're positioned so close to the ground that nearly everything is almost touching it. Plus, you now have the ability to harness a lot more power."

Reflecting on the past, when launches occurred without these gadgets, compared to now, it's astounding. With their assistance, we've managed to shave off half a second from the 0-100km/h acceleration time in just three seconds. The progress we've made due to these devices is truly remarkable.

"However, if this action is uniform for all, it doesn't really alter much."

Peter has spent two decades in the racing circuit, witnessing Valentino Rossi's rise and retirement. He is leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's health struggles.

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Pedro Acosta "deactivated the pit lane speed limiter and settled the penalty!"

"It seems he turned off the pit speed limiter! He did the same thing in Australia and now again here."

Johann Zarco grinned as he remembered his unsuccessful effort to follow MotoGP newcomer Pedro Acosta during a qualifying session at Sepang.

The French rider intended to exit the pits behind the competitor on the GASGAS bike.

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However, the 20-year-old was also focused on drafting off another vehicle and sped away down the pit lane with surprising swiftness.

Zarco mentioned that following his initial tire change, he was unsure about how to increase his speed and felt the need to trail behind someone.

"However, I was unable to overtake Pedro as he sped through the pit lane at a high speed."

"I believe he deactivated the pit limiter! He has done this twice, once in Australia and now here."

"He is aware that the fine amounts to 1,500 euros. Therefore, he understands that if he intends to apprehend someone, the cost will be 1,500 euros!"

Zarco quipped, "That's the MotoGP way—once we have more money!"

Lucky for Zarco, he held onto the lead in the Q1 session, while Acosta narrowly missed securing a spot in Q2, finishing in third place.

Such a 'pay-to-tow' strategy is feasible because MotoGP regulations specify that a rider will only face a fine for an initial violation of the 60km/h pit lane speed limit, as long as they are not traveling at an 'extremely high speed'.

On the other hand, if a rider commits the same violation multiple times at a single event, the penalty will increase with each subsequent offense. Additionally, a rider who commits three infractions during one event could face additional sanctions.

According to the FIM MotoGP Stewards, riding at extremely high speeds can lead to increased fines, especially if the rider has committed multiple offenses throughout the season. Additionally, further penalties may be imposed.

Simon Crafar, who was listening to Zarco and is set to become the future Chairman of the FIM MotoGP Stewards, suggested that the penalty (fine) for minor speeding violations in the pit lane is expected to be revised next year. He was quick to note, however, that "this has nothing to do with me!"

However, for now, and given the crucial importance of qualifying, the 1,500 euro fine is an expense that both riders and teams are prepared to incur.

Tech3 racer Acosta will enter the Barcelona finale next weekend with a slight advantage, holding a three-point lead over Brad Binder from factory KTM, as they compete for fifth place in the world championship standings.

In 2017, Zarco, who is currently competing for LCR Honda, finished sixth in his debut MotoGP season while racing Yamaha bikes with the Tech3 team.

For two decades, Peter has been a fixture in the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is closely involved with the unfolding story of Suzuki's departure and is deeply informed about Marc Marquez's injury challenges.

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Enea Bastianini "not subjected to severe treatment, unworthy of retention" at Ducati

"Being there for over two years isn't guaranteed by a privileged ticket"

Enea Bastianini has been informed that he "hasn't earned" his place at Ducati.

Earlier this season, the competition for Bastianini's factory seat next year narrowed down to a tight contest between Jorge Martin and Marc Marquez, with odds at 50-50.

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Marquez received approval, leading to Martin's move to Aprilia, while Bastianini will become part of the revamped Tech3 KTM squad.

Initially, Bastianini might influence the outcome of the MotoGP season's last race in Barcelona, where his teammate Pecco Bagnaia competes against Martin for the championship.

While there have been inquiries about Marquez turning into a problem for the leading pair in the competition, it seems Bastianini might actually be the one to watch.

"Neil Hodgson from TNT Sports mentioned that he's the individual departing from Ducati, possibly with something to demonstrate."

"You're not granted permission to remain there beyond a two-year period."

He occupies the fourth position in the championship standings, trailing behind two GP24s – his performance doesn't justify his continuation.

"He hasn't faced severe treatment. Over two years, his performance has been overshadowed by his team member, and he's trailing Marc in the GP23 standings."

"Not everyone is qualified to be part of the top team."

Michael Laverty remarked, "It's a defining trait of his career – not to sound harsh, but he tends to be sluggish on Fridays."

Enea finds his rhythm on Saturday and then performs on Sunday. This performance places him among the top three globally, yet it falls short of securing the championship title.

Hodgson mentioned, "They rejected Martin. So naturally, they would reject Bastianini as well.

The prevailing sentiment among those in the racing circuit is that Ducati has hit the mark, suggesting Marc is poised for a stellar season ahead, with the potential to secure three or four championships.

"I believe there's nothing they could do [with Martin] as he experienced a sense of betrayal."

"He was firm in his approach, and so was Marc. It's likely Marc would have moved to Aprilia…"

In 2022, Bastianini secured the second-highest number of race victories, trailing only behind Bagnaia. His performance as a rider for Gresini led to his promotion to the official Ducati team, surpassing Martin in the process.

However, during his initial race as a factory rider, an injury thwarted his opening season with Ducati.

Armed with top-tier equipment, Bastianini has secured three grand prix victories for Ducati's official racing team.

In the upcoming year, he will be equipped with KTM factory bikes, joining forces with Maverick Vinales in the Tech3 team.

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter for Sky Sports, where he reported on a variety of sports including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1.

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Marco Melandri expresses disapproval over Andrea Iannone's comeback: 'His performance matched 2007's lap times'

Ex-MotoGP competitor criticizes Andrea Iannone's reappearance at Sepang MotoGP

Marco Melandri expressed that he anticipated Andrea Iannone would find it challenging to earn points during his comeback at the Malaysian GP in MotoGP, yet he admitted to being surprised by just how poorly they performed.

Following a suspension of four years for doping that essentially concluded his MotoGP pursuits, former grand prix and World Superbike champion Iannone returned to the premier class racing for the first time since 2019, making his comeback at the Sepang circuit last weekend.

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VR46 brought him on board to fill in for Fabio Di Giannantonio, who concluded his season prematurely to undergo surgery on his dislocated left shoulder, an injury he sustained in Austria.

Iannone demonstrated remarkable pace, finishing ninth in Friday morning's session on new tires, and placed 17th in the qualifiers. He had the potential to achieve a faster time if not for a mistake during his critical lap.

Being away from MotoGP racing for an extended period impacted Iannone's performance, resulting in him finishing next to last in both the sprint and the grand prix due to physical constraints.

Former MotoGP victor Marco Melandri expressed that Andrea Iannone's comeback was less impressive than anticipated, noting that his lap times were comparable to those from the year 2007.

"Melandri commented to corsedimoto that there was a general anticipation for better performance from Andrea Iannone, particularly following a promising start on Friday morning."

"Nonetheless, only a handful had opted for a tyre change. In Malaysia, the combination of fresh tyres and cooler temperatures can significantly alter performance."

I anticipated Iannone would have difficulty earning points in the race, but his performance fell below even those low expectations.

"Throughout the weekend, there was no noticeable improvement. Starting from the midpoint of the race, the speeds were significantly reduced."

"He was matching the lap times that [Casey] Stoner and myself posted back in 2007. I believe he has the potential and should improve upon those."

Melandri's comparison of his 2007 lap times to Iannone's recent performance is accurate. However, during the Sepang race, the substitute from VR46 recorded an average pace of 2 minutes, 2.379 seconds. This left him 47.599 seconds behind the leader, placing him 17th overall.

In 2007, Melandri maintained an average speed of 2 minutes and 2.784 seconds, securing the second place.

Melandri's critique overlooks the actual situation

The fact that Iannone secured the ninth position on Friday morning due to his use of new tires, unlike many others, is not adequately acknowledged in Melandri's observation, missing out on crucial aspects.

The initial point to note is that Iannone's final appearance on a MotoGP motorcycle occurred during the post-season test in Jerez in 2019. At that time, aerodynamic advancements were not as sophisticated as they are currently, and Ducati was just beginning to experiment with ride height adjustment systems.

During the four years of Iannone's doping suspension, there was a significant period of nearly five years dedicated to the development of bikes and tyres. Moreover, the transition from riding a Superbike to a MotoGP motorcycle in recent years has rarely led to immediate success for riders.

Before his appearance, Iannone hadn't had the chance to test the Ducati. In contrast, Alvaro Bautista, who was previously criticized by Iannone following the Malaysian Grand Prix, had the opportunity to test the GP23 prior to his wildcard entry at Sepang last year, despite ending the event with an injury.

As the first quarter concluded, Iannone trailed Aprilia's Aleix Espargaro, a rider who had clinched three grand prix victories during Iannone's hiatus, by a mere 0.076 seconds. Additionally, he was just 0.314 seconds behind his VR46 colleague Marco Bezzecchi, who was positioned in 14th place.

Iannone fell short of advancing to Q2 by a mere 0.383 seconds. He faced difficulties during the competitions, yet conceded on Saturday that the primary hurdle was "Andrea" himself, rather than the motorcycle. He compared the experience of handling a Superbike to the ease of cycling when juxtaposed with the strenuous requirements of competing in MotoGP.

Iannone's performance over the weekend might not look impressive in the records, yet that doesn't diminish the influence he had.

Iannone disclosed that Jorge Martin, the championship frontrunner, reached out to him with a message saying, "I've checked out your stats, man, the way you race," during their time at Sepang.

"I felt a great sense of excitement. I noticed that at certain moments, I'm almost at par with the other Ducati riders. However, the challenge lies in my lack of familiarity with the braking points. I'm still navigating how much the bike can slow down, and I haven't fully utilized the tyres, brakes, or aerodynamics. Moreover, physically applying the brakes with force remains a hurdle for me.

"These lessons come from riding, not from practice at home. SBK is completely unrelated to this bike."

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Luca Marini believes Honda has the potential to be the next dominant force to challenge Ducati's overwhelming influence in MotoGP. "They appear to be in a league of their own…"

Luca Marini feels that Ducati is currently overwhelming the MotoGP competition with its dominance, yet he sees Honda as potentially rising to become the championship's next leading force soon.

Ducati has dominated its rivals in 2024, with the Italian brand securing victories in all but one of the 19 grand prix races held this season.

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The team has effortlessly clinched the constructors' championship and is poised to secure the riders' championship through one of its participants. Additionally, it has dominated by capturing the teams', independent teams', and independent riders' titles well before the season concludes.

In comparison, Honda has only managed to accumulate 73 points compared to Ducati's impressive 685 in the manufacturers' rankings, and so far in 2024, none of its racers have made it into the top six in any grand prix event.

Yamaha, a Japanese competitor, has made notable progress in 2024, achieving its highest score of the season at the Malaysian GP last weekend, with its riders earning 23 points and securing a top-six finish for the first time.

Marini observes that Honda can make progress by learning from Yamaha's advancements, but to match Ducati's performance, they must come up with innovative solutions.

Nonetheless, he firmly believes that through strategic efforts in the coming year, Honda has the potential to emerge as Ducati's main competitor.

"He remarked that Ducati seems to be operating on a different level entirely right now," he commented, following his drop to 15th place in the Malaysian Grand Prix after being surpassed by Marc Marquez and Franco Morbidelli due to crashes.

"We must elevate our game, but also figure out how to gain an advantage over them because, in my view, they are currently dominating the league to an excessive degree."

"Therefore, we need to come up with an innovation. We're going to give it our best shot, as I believe Yamaha has recently made a significant advancement."

"Here [at Sepang], I believe they put together an amazing weekend."

"Therefore, it's crucial that we quickly make a comeback and enhance our performance at the earliest opportunity, as it is now achievable."

"Other companies are facing challenges, and if we act wisely and outsmart them, I believe we have the potential to become the second-leading force in the championship by making the right decisions in the coming year."

As 2024 progresses, with just 37 points remaining up for grabs, Honda has been officially placed at the bottom of the manufacturers' standings, while Yamaha has secured the fourth position.

The only possible change might be seen in the battle for second place between KTM and Aprilia, who are separated by 31 points.

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Marc Marquez Discusses 2025: Pecco Bagnaia Has "Insights into the Motorcycle"

"I aim to avoid retiring with any 'what ifs' in my mind."

Marc Marquez has provided an in-depth account of his journey from the brink of retiring to securing a position with the factory Ducati team.

In the upcoming season, he will advance from Gresini to join the ranks on MotoGP's most prestigious motorcycle, sharing the lineup with the reigning champion, Francesco Bagnaia.

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Bagnaia, a key figure for Ducati and their leading rider, faces the challenge of bridging a 24-point gap with Jorge Martin in the season's final race in Barcelona in order to defend his championship title.

Marquez secured a spot on the main factory team after he declined an offer from Pramac, even though they had the capability to provide him with a top-of-the-line Desmosedici.

"Securing victory was my goal, and to even stand a chance, having the right bike was essential," Marquez explained to TNT Sports.

"Obviously, it requires the courage to take action!"

"I am set to compete against a fellow team member who holds a world championship title and has six years of experience riding a Ducati."

"He's familiar with every hidden detail of the bicycle."

"However, you must make an effort. I don't wish to look back upon retirement filled with thoughts of 'what if…'"

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"Joy Returns"

This season, Marquez has found his groove again after leaving Honda to join Gresini Ducati.

He walked away from a high-paying job at Honda, but also abandoned a malfunctioning motorcycle that kept leading to accidents, adding to his already long list of injuries.

"He mentioned that smiling frequently turns it into a common and standard occurrence."

You overlook the challenging times.

"However, during challenging times, you place greater significance on the importance of a positive moment."

Suddenly, I went from experiencing the greatest moments of my life to facing my worst fears.

"Now, my grin has returned. It holds even greater significance than global titles."

Describing the 'most challenging moment' of his injury

He spoke of his injuries, particularly highlighting the significant deterioration of his arm issues at Jerez in 2020, stating, "Mentally, it was among the toughest challenges."

"Experiencing an injury, the initial two years typically don't pose any issues."

"However, if you find yourself in difficulty, and you visit a physician who declares, 'your recovery process is complete,' yet you continue to feel unwell?"

"Then the uncertainties begin to surface in your thoughts. You start questioning your own abilities."

"This is the most challenging time."

This year, Marquez secured his first win on a Ducati at the Aragon Grand Prix, marking his initial triumph in three years.

"It was an amazing sensation. I had been waiting for what felt like forever," he shared.

"In 2014, I secured victories in ten consecutive races, but currently? Merely a single win following a two-year gap! Thus, the significance shifts.

Prior to my mishap, triumph was routine. It wasn't extraordinary. Finishing in second place was akin to defeat.

"However, triumph is uncommon as there can only be a single victor among the competitors."

"It has altered my view on athletics and competition."

'My strategy is complete'

His recent triumph, along with his persistence in contending for the championship until a short while ago, has justified what Marquez refers to as 'his strategy'.

He stated, "I have already completed my plan."

Upon reaching Gresini, I came with a strategy.

"The main focus was to determine whether I could regain my competitive edge."

The objective was to secure an opportunity to join a factory team, aiming for the top squad with the finest motorcycle, which was Ducati Lenovo.

"I had to demonstrate quickness since your worth is determined by your most recent performance, not by your previous accomplishments."

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.

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Jorge Martin's Final Shot? "I'm Skeptical" Aprilia Poses Little Risk to Ducati

Jorge Martin Could Face Challenges at Aprilia

Jorge Martin has received notice that the upcoming season finale next weekend might be his final opportunity to clinch a MotoGP championship.

Heading into the Barcelona round, Pramac's racer Martin is ahead by 24 points over the current champion and Ducati's main team rider, Francesco Bagnaia.

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Should Martin secure victory in the Barcelona sprint race, he will clinch his inaugural championship title.

Time is crucial, as he's set to move to Aprilia next year, where he's been informed not to expect a machine capable of clinching the championship.

"Michael Laverty from TNT Sports cautioned that until the regulatory alterations set for 2027 take effect, it's Ducati's time to shine in the imminent future."

One would expect them to secure the championship this year and for the following two years as well.

Martin is heading to Aprilia, and it could be a challenging period. It's hoped that they can provide him with what he needs to stay competitive, but I'm somewhat skeptical.

"Ducati is leading the pack, as demonstrated by securing the first eight positions in the Thailand sprint. This highlights their team's superior equipment."

Martin fell short of clinching the MotoGP title in the last race of the previous season.

He has consistently been passed over for the highly sought-after position at the factory Ducati team.

Falling behind Marc Marquez for the 2025 season's ride led Martin to switch to Aprilia.

Martin's advantage in the current season's championship, with just one round remaining, positions him to potentially shift the #1 plate from Ducati to their Italian competitors, Aprilia, in the upcoming season.

He is set to make his first appearance on his new team's motorcycle during the offseason trial.

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

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