Racing Towards a New ‘Alien’ Era: Bagnaia Sees Echoes of MotoGP Legends in Current Championship Battle

Is MotoGP entering another 'alien' period?

Bagnaia believes MotoGP is reminiscent of the times with Rossi, Stoner, Lorenzo, Pedrosa, and Marquez.

Francesco Bagnaia feels that MotoGP is heading back towards a period reminiscent of the 'alien' era, a time when racers such as Valentino Rossi, Jorge Lorenzo, and Dani Pedrosa were in command.

The battle for the 2024 championship remains fiercely contested between Jorge Martin and Bagnaia, with a mere 10 points difference following the recent Japanese Grand Prix.

Currently, MotoGP is experiencing what many believe to be its most fiercely competitive period. However, throughout much of this season, a distinct gap has emerged between the leading quartet of Martin, Bagnaia, Marc Marquez, and Enea Bastianini, and their competitors.

In Japan, the gap among the top four was a mere 4.3 seconds, whereas Franco Morbidelli, who finished fifth, was more than 13 seconds behind.

Bagnaia feels that we're entering a period reminiscent of the late 2000s to early 2010s, known as the ‘alien’ era, where racers such as Rossi, Lorenzo, Pedrosa, Casey Stoner, and later Marc Marquez, dominated the lead positions.

Following his victory at the Japanese Grand Prix, Bagnaia was seen in the cooldown room prior to the podium ceremony, discussing the championship fight with Martin.

"He mentioned, 'This is how it will be from now on. Jorge ought to allow me to eliminate the gap completely so we enter Valencia on equal footing.'"

"Works for me," Martin responded.

During the press conference, when prompted for further details, Bagnaia stated, "I aim to close the gap and pass him."

"However, arriving in Valencia tied in points and having the title go to whoever comes out on top could present an exciting scenario."

"This is an occurrence that hasn't taken place for numerous seasons."

The circumstances we find ourselves in are such that errors are easily made, leading to potential failure.

"We're constantly pushing boundaries, juggling between 5, 8, and 10 points every weekend."

"Indeed, it's complicated, and it's challenging. Reflecting on the past, particularly during the years 2011, 2010, 2012, and 2013, the racing scene was similar. Back then, icons like Marc, Vale, Lorenzo, and Pedrosa, along with Casey earlier, consistently dominated the leaderboards."

"I believe the championship is trending that way currently, as the stronger competitors consistently find themselves leading. Right from the initial three or four races at the championship's outset, it became evident that Jorge and I were consistently among the frontrunners."

"Marc then managed to catch up, followed by Enea doing the same. This means we consistently remain among the top four. Looking at today's gap, it's clear we've set ourselves apart once more."

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