MotoGP: Bagnaia Strikes First Blow in Title Showdown
Friday’s Practice Session
The final weekend of the MotoGP season has begun, and Italian Francesco Bagnaia has struck the first psychological blow in his title showdown with Jorge Martin. Bagnaia clocked 1:38.918 to edge out two other late attacks from compatriot Marco Bezzecchi, 0.08 seconds back, with Spaniard Aleix Espargaro third, 0.107s adrift.
Afternoon Session
The afternoon session saw all but one of the 23 riders improve their times, with the top three riders, Bagnaia, Bezzecchi, and Espargaro, trading fastest laps. Bagnaia’s Ducati team-mate, Johann Zarco, took over the top spot with 10 minutes left, but Bagnaia made a late charge to secure the fastest time.
Post-Session Comments
"I’m very happy with today because the track conditions are very different from the last race here in May," said Bagnaia, who won the main race in Barcelona in the spring. "We’ve adapted well. I’ve got no choice but to be very strong all weekend if I’m to have any hope."
Championship Standings
Martin, who leads the championship by 24 points, set a fastest lap with 15 minutes to go in the afternoon session, but was unable to better Bagnaia’s time. "It was a complicated day, even though my pace seemed good," Martin said. "My feeling was strange and I lacked grip on the rear tyre. But I’m going to stay calm and focus on the positive because I know what direction to go in for qualifying on Saturday."
Qualifying and Grid Positions
The grid positions for the sprint and main race will be settled on Saturday, with Martin looking to seal the title. He will be joined by Zarco, who will start fourth, and Bagnaia, who will start fifth.
Background and Context
The race was originally scheduled to take place in Valencia, but was moved to Barcelona due to severe flooding in the region, which has killed over 220 people. The event has been dubbed the Solidarity GP to show support for the people of Valencia.
Conclusions
Bagnaia’s strong performance in the first practice session sets him up well for the rest of the weekend, but Martin will be hoping to bounce back in qualifying to take the championship lead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who set the fastest time in the first practice session?
A: Francesco Bagnaia, with a time of 1:38.918.
Q: Who is currently leading the championship?
A: Jorge Martin, with a 24-point lead over Francesco Bagnaia.
Q: Why was the race moved from Valencia to Barcelona?
A: Due to severe flooding in the region, which has killed over 220 people.