Casey Stoner criticizes sprint race setup: "MotoGP lacks challenge"

Casey Stoner shares his opinions on the current MotoGP weekend structure

Casey Stoner has expressed disapproval of the sprint race format in MotoGP, arguing that it unfairly influences the outcomes of the main races.

MotoGP launched a fresh race format in the previous year, featuring a sprint race every Saturday of each event, and Francesco Bagnaia clinched the 2023 championship title.

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Heading into the final race weekend of the season, Bagnaia is 24 points behind Jorge Martin in the standings. However, Bagnaia has secured victory in 10 of the 19 races held on Sundays, compared to Martin's three wins.

Martin's exceptional performance in the Saturday sprints may play a key role in clinching his first championship, should he manage to transform his significant advantage into a victory. Securing a win in Barcelona's Saturday sprint will officially crown him as the champion.

Former champion Stoner expressed to GPOne, "The essence of motorsport is to showcase the top athletes competing on the most challenging vehicles to operate, yet currently, MotoGP has become too simplistic."

Riders lack sufficient mastery over the motorcycle. The contribution of engineers is becoming excessively influential.

"Subsequently, they introduced the sprint race, which diminishes the total track time available for focusing on the longer race."

"The concept of a world championship isn't meant to revolve around brief showcases; it's designed to be a test of stamina."

"Essentially, it's akin to declaring ‘alright, we’re setting up for a marathon, but now 10 laps doesn't cut it, it’s 43 kilometres!’"

"It's an exhausting and demanding task. Therefore, we require stability as the world championship is meant to be a marathon event."

"It's not feasible to rely on individuals who excel briefly, capable of handling the soft tyre. Consideration must be given to the entire race length."

"Additionally, earning points from these brief races isn't advisable as points are traditionally awarded on Sunday during the primary race."

Setting up a bike is quite challenging, ensuring you maintain concentration for the whole race.

"Currently, our attention is intensely centered on a single lap, emphasizing the significance of advancing through Q2 from the initial practice session."

"This halts everyone from focusing on preparing for the race, ensuring all preparations are complete."

"Consequently, it appears that the notable difference in performance among competitors on Sundays can be attributed to not all racers being adequately prepared for the speed of the race."

Taking into account electronics and aerodynamics, Stoner stated, "Overall, I believe the MotoGP motorcycle has become one of the simplest bikes to ride globally."

Stoner secured the MotoGP championships in 2007 riding for Ducati and again in 2011 with Honda.

His triumph with Ducati turned out to be a misleading sign of success for the company. For the following 15 years, they found themselves unable to clinch a championship, even after bringing on board renowned riders Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo

In 2022, Bagnaia finally broke that curse, however, Stoner has consistently criticized the use of advanced technology in MotoGP bikes.

He has now strongly criticized the two-year-old system that might help Martin snatch the championship away from Bagnaia.

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter for Sky Sports, his coverage spanning diverse areas including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1 racing.

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Jorge Lorenzo Delivers Decisive Opinion on Jorge Martin vs. Francesco Bagnaia Showdown

Two-time World Champion Dives into Analysis of Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin's Duel

Jorge Lorenzo has evaluated the championship showdown between Jorge Martin and Francesco Bagnaia.

Heading into this weekend's season-ending race in Barcelona, Pramac's Martin is ahead by 24 points over Ducati's official team rider Bagnaia.

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Martin has the chance to secure his first championship and snatch it away from the current titleholder, Bagnaia, by claiming victory in Saturday's sprint race.

"Considering the current standings, Martin is more likely to succeed, though nothing is guaranteed until the final race ends," two-time MotoGP winner Lorenzo mentioned to Motosprint.

Jorge would need to commit a significant number of errors to miss out on the championship; he even collaborated with a sports psychologist to temper his eagerness, yet he continued to slip up, similar to Bagnaia.

The championship had its fair share of errors, yet it appears to be Martin's season, and I'd be pleased for him if it turns out that way. He's a bright and gifted young man who undoubtedly merits at least one MotoGP championship.

"I find similarities between myself and Martin, as well as with Bagnaia and Fabio Quartararo.

"Pecco and Jorge both have a style of extending far from the motorcycle, and Jorge shares a burst of speed akin to mine, enabling him to accelerate quickly to distance himself from competitors."

"Martin and Pecco both exhibit steady performances once ahead, demonstrating a smooth and stable approach similar to my own."

"For instance, while Marc Marquez may not be as precise, he compensates with different strengths. He exhibits a more laid-back, dynamic, and assertive demeanor."

This weekend's closing event has been moved to Barcelona following severe flooding in Valencia.

Bagnaia firmly stated that he would not participate in the Valencia race due to the catastrophe, even if it meant losing the championship.

Lorenzo commended the victor's perspective, stating, "In the face of a disaster such as what unfolded in Valencia, sports take a secondary role.

"Express myself the way Bagnaia did? It seems his message was well-received. I believe mine would have been too, but hats off to him for showing such gentlemanly conduct."

In their last competition as rivals, Bagnaia and Marquez are set to go head-to-head before teaming up in a surprising partnership with Ducati's main team in 2025.

"Lorenzo stated that the outcome will hinge on the events that occur on the race track."

"If tension exists, it will extend beyond that area, yet if one is significantly quicker than the other, the issue won't emerge."

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 racing.

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Twelve months following Marc Marquez's impactful grin, he sheds light on adjusting to Ducati

Marc Marquez outlines his journey of adapting to the GP23

Nearly a year has passed since Marc Marquez's grin brightened the MotoGP universe.

Following his initial ride on the Ducati during the Valencia test after the season ended, his physical demeanor clearly conveyed a profound message, sharply differing from his recent demeanor while riding for Honda.

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This weekend, Marquez is set to compete in Barcelona with the Desmosedici from last year for his final race before he transitions to Ducati's factory-level equipment in their premier team in 2025.

Marquez shared with Motosan that his smile from the previous year marked the beginning of his adventure with Ducati, explaining, "It was essentially about finding tranquility within myself, as choosing something so significant naturally comes with its share of uncertainties."

"After a decade of using the same bicycle, I was skeptical about my ability to handle the Ducati."

"This doesn't imply that I doubted my abilities; if that were the case, I wouldn't have chosen to do it."

"I was taken aback, as I felt quite confident from the outset."

Adjusting to the present circumstances is one of my strengths as a cyclist.

"Subsequently, the potential for enhancement varies, as I favor achieving the peak swiftly."

Marc Marquez showcased exceptional skill in Catalunya during May, securing podium finishes twice despite starting from 14th position 🤯#MotoGP pic.twitter.com/NQ0BZC7tPW

Marquez described how he transitioned from a substandard Honda to the championship-winning GP23 Ducati, which was last year's victor and currently ranks just below the GP24.

"The initial step involves mastering the operation of the motorcycle and making adjustments to accommodate it," he explained.

"At a certain juncture, the capacity to adjust hits its limit, prompting a shift towards focusing on enhancing personal comfort or addressing the areas of greatest deficiency."

"As you delve into that aspect, the connection between the technician and the rider starts to form. This marks another pivotal moment in the process."

"When you approach the benchmark times of competition, you encounter the initial barrier, but it's short enough to leap over."

"Then you bypass it, and begin focusing on refining the technical aspects. I mentioned this in Jerez and Austin.

"However, with every attempt, the obstacle grows taller; now, you attempt to retreat and continue this cycle until you discover the solution and progress ahead."

Marquez has made a triumphant return to winning form in grand prix racing this year, securing three victories on Sundays.

Currently, he ranks third in the championship standings, with just one more race remaining, holding a slender lead of one point over Enea Bastianini.

Marquez has distinctly outpaced the other three GP23 competitors, securing himself a spot on the factory team for the upcoming season.

Transitioning to superior Ducati gear marks the next phase in his impressive adjustment journey.

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

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Johann Zarco: 'Significant Progress in Rankings, Better Late Than Never'

"It may have taken a little while, but it's always better late than never."

Johann Zarco's journey to meet his goal took more time than anticipated, yet as the flyaway races concluded, the LCR Honda competitor successfully reached his 2024 objective by placing the RC213V among the top ten in MotoGP.

Heading towards ending the season as the leading Honda competitor, the rider from France improved his highest grand prix finish from 12th in the first half of the year to ninth in Mandalika and subsequently eighth in Buriram throughout the overseas races.

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Zarco secured a ninth-place finish in the dry Indonesian race, marking his nearest position to the lead, with a gap of 15.151 seconds.

Zarco's performance in the qualifying rounds has been noteworthy, making it into Q2 once again during the recent event in Sepang, where he came close to finishing within the top ten in the grand prix.

Zarco expressed satisfaction with the outcome, noting it as a positive affirmation of his significant progress in rankings during the international races.

"I currently hold the roles I identified as goals at the start of the year."

"It may have taken a little while, but it's always better to arrive late than not at all."

"It's a significant milestone for us, and that brings joy. My ability to handle the bike has greatly improved since the year started, and my feedback has become far more precise."

"I am able to be accurate and keep the responses aligned, indicating that I'm heading in the correct direction."

Zarco attributed his progress to the newest Honda aerodynamics along with enhancements he made to his braking technique.

"We've made significant progress in handling fast turns. I believe our motorcycle's enhanced cornering ability, thanks to the aerodynamics, played a key role in our advancement," he stated.

"Mastering braking is an art and a capability that few cyclists possess, and I focus on honing this talent because there's a crucial aspect to grasp. When you do, it opens up a whole new level of enjoyment while riding."

"It's not about exerting extra force, it's about finding the balance between tilting, sliding, and applying pressure. That's what makes it stand out."

The continuous series of competitions proved beneficial as well.

"I've been focusing on improving my braking skills, both on the supermoto and my CBR. However, my riding time has been limited as I'm just seven weeks out! It's pretty exciting, though. When you're racing back-to-back, you've got to view it as the ultimate training experience."

Zarco is currently ranked 17th in the world championship standings, having accumulated 53 points, as we approach the Solidarity Barcelona MotoGP season-ending race this weekend.

Takaaki Nakagami leads the Honda contingent in the standings, sitting in 19th place with 31 points, ahead of Joan Mir who has 21 points in 21st position, and Marini who is 22nd with 14 points.

For two decades, Peter has experienced the ebb and flow of the paddock, witnessing the rise and departure of Valentino Rossi. He's currently leading the coverage on Suzuki's withdrawal and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with his injuries.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"I consider myself very fortunate."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are his fondest recollections while wearing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"I began my professional journey at Valentino."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He stated, "Age is the issue!"

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

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

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

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

"This is the typical routine for athletes."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Absolutely, without a doubt."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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