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MotoGP: Results From The PT Grand Prix In Thailand

Francesco Bagnaia (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Francesco Bagnaia won a wet PT Grand Prix of Thailand over title rival Jorge Martin. Pedro Acosta finished third. Marc Marquez ran second early in the race and threatened Bagnaia for the lead before crashing and remounting. He was classified 12th. There were only 16 finishers.

MotoGP race Classification
MotoGP race worldstanding

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

#TheRematch: Bagnaia takes the fight to Martin with stunning wet weather win in Thailand

The #1 stays calm under pressure to escape his title rival and take his first wet weather win in MotoGP™ as Marquez and Bastianini crash at Buriram

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) reigned supreme with a stunning wet weather win under pressure at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand. The #1 battled Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) for the lead before the #93 crashed out of contention, leaving Bagnaia to steel his nerves and get the hammer down at the front to escape Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) by nearly three seconds. With that statement made, the gap at the top is back down to just 17 points with two race weekends remaining, and it’s now officially two contenders for the crown. #TheRematch is on!

Pecco Bagnaia (1) leads Jorge Martin (89) at the front of the Thai GP. Dorna photo.

Behind that battle there was another, with Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) claiming the final spot on the podium after a stunning showdown against Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jack Miller.

There was drama before the Grand Prix began, with the wet conditions catching out Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) on the sighting lap. He made the start though, and as the skies above Buriram continued to brood, the lights went out to decide the winner of the 2024 Thai Grand Prix.

Martin made a rocket start, snatching the advantage on the run to Turn 1 as a shuffle through there saw Bagnaia emerge in second, Marquez move up to third and Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) lose out as Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) went on the attack.

The Championship rivals began to duel – locking horns on the opening laps as Martin went wide, Bagnaia took over but the #89 responded swiftly as he sliced past the Italian at Turn 4. Martin began to extend his lead to almost half a second, shadowed by Bagnaia, with Marquez on their tail as Acosta duelled Quartararo in their wake. The rookie then sailed well wide, giving himself work to do as Quartararo suffered a worse fate following contact from Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing). The Italian was given a Long Lap, and the Frenchman was forced to rejoin at the back.

Back at the front, the first frisson of drama came on Lap 5 as Martin made a crucial error, running wide at Turn 3 and dropping down to third position – behind Marc Marquez. That gave Bagnaia the lead and made it a different tone of Jaws music for the reigning Champion as the #93 continued to shadow him.

Marc Marquez (93) challenged Francesco Bagnaia (1) before crashing again. Dorna photo.

More drama hit in the meantime, as Morbidelli’s day soon went from bad to worse, crashing out at Turn 8, moments before Bastianini’s Grand Prix also came to a halt at Turn 8, with the #23 losing the front and ending any hopes of scoring strong points on Lap 9 – after Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) had also slid out.

Meanwhile, Marc Marquez began his charge for victory, sending a move down the inside at the final corner. It was repelled. The #93 began to pile on the pressure though, with Martin lurking and waiting for an opportunity to pounce in P3. Marc Marquez sent his next attack on Lap 13, unable to make the move stick, with Bagnaia fighting back.

Marc Marquez continued to push to the limit, but then he pushed over it. The #93 made a crucial mistake at Turn 8 – skitting across the track on his knee and almost, almost saving it, but it wasn’t to be. The eight-time World Champion was on the floor on Lap 14, promoting Martin into P2. #TheRematch was all but guaranteed, and the top two were now leading the race – in reverse order.

Bagnaia pounded on at the front, with Martin not able to home in but this now a battle of nerves. It was a nail-biting finale to the Grand Prix at the front as the laps ticked down for what must have seemed like hours for Bagnaia, but behind we were treated to an incredible show of a different kind.

After his earlier dramas, Acosta was back on terms with Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and managed to slice past the South African, then next up was Miller. The Australian put up a stunning fight as the two went toe-to-toe, sideways and all which ways in a high-speed game of chicken, but in the end the rookie was able to make it stick.

Pedro Acosta (31) stayed upright in tricky conditions to finish third on his GasGas-branded KTM RC16. Dorna photo.

At the head of the field, Bagnaia sealed the deal. Nearly three seconds clear and taking his first wet weather MotoGP™ win when he needed one most, the reigning Champion cuts it back down to 17 points ahead of the final two races. With plenty on the line too, Martin’s composure in second ensures it’s still some gap at least – to falter would have been to cede the title lead. And he didn’t.

Acosta completed the podium after his late charge, in the end finishing ahead of Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) as the Italian put in his own final bout of glory. Miller was forced to settle for fifth, ahead of teammate Binder, with Aprilia Racing rider Maverick Viñales next up. The #12 was a further 2.60s behind, crossing the line in front of CASTROL Honda LCR’s Johann Zarco in P8 who takes Honda’s best GP result of the season so far.

Meanwhile, Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) and Alex Marquez rounded out the top 10 after a dramatic Thai GP. Marc Marquez recovered to 11th, walking away with key points after beating Luca Marini (Repsol Honda Team), Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR), Bastianini and Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team), with the #36 securing the final point. Marquez also had to drop a position and did so somewhat contentiously, having earlier made contact with Mir.

So that’s it. A day that could have seen everything turn on its head instead turns the screw at the top of the standings, and the rematch now begins. Martin, Bagnaia, 17 points and one crown. There are only two weekends to go, so don’t miss the next one as we head for the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia with everything on the line.


More, from a press release issued by GasGas:


MotoGP™ podium in Thailand as Acosta is back with a bang!

MotoGP 2024 – Round 18 of 20, Buriram, Thailand – Race

Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 returned to the sweet haze of podium Prosecco after a stunning performance by Pedro Acosta in wet conditions at Buriram delivered the crew’s fifth trophy of 2024. The Spaniard moved up from 7th on the grid to seize 3rd with two laps to go and bagged his first rostrum appearance since the round 15 in Indonesia. Augusto Fernandez ran top eight at the overcast venue northeast of Bangkok but a late fall meant a DNF.

Acosta pockets 16 points for a rocket display in the Thai drizzle and his first MotoGP wet-weather podium score

Fernandez motors hard from a grid spot of 16th to fight for top ten places but crashes out
Daniel Holgado takes 12th in Moto3™ as teammate Jacob Roulstone snares the last point in 15th

The fifth Grand Prix of Thailand had enjoyed heat and sunshine across Friday and Saturday but the teams arrived at the circuit in Buriram on Sunday morning to be greeted by wet asphalt and overcast skies. By the time of the 26-lap MotoGP race in the afternoon the track was still shimmering and soaking and was tricky for judging grip and visibility.

Pedro Acosta and Augusto Fernandez began the Grand Prix from the third and sixth rows of the grid. Acosta took some time to feel his limits and potential but then passed three riders to move into podium contention and P3 by the flag. Augusto was busy scrapping inside the top ten and was demonstrating strong speed and potential. His fall came three laps before the end of the race.

The last phase of the final triple header will take place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia next weekend and the 2024 season will close with the Valencian Grand Prix in three weeks’ time.

Pedro Acosta, 3rd: “Super-nice! It was a race where I was trying to stay calm and do everything in the right way and, after a few races where we did not finish, I wanted to be strong. We need to be happy. I want to thank the team for an amazing job because every time that we try something we are improving. I think we are making a good job in arriving where we want to go.”

Augusto Fernandez, DNF “A shame to finish like this but I was trying to save the front end and just crashed. I made a mistake and trying to recover the position I perhaps pushed a bit too much. After all race being in the group and seeing the result possible…a shame. The top eight was there. We’ll move onto Malaysia now.”

Nicolas Goyon, GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 Team Manager: “An unbelievable end to the Thai Grand Prix and the end to a few tricky races we’ve had. We knew we could perform well here and clearly the target today was to see the checkered flag in the best way. When we saw the rain we also thought we could hope for a bit more. This was Pedro’s first MotoGP race in the wet and he avoided any mistakes to make the podium and be where he wants to be. We are still in the fight for the top five of the championship as well. Augusto’s potential is very high in the wet and he wanted to show good form but unfortunately he crashed while he was in P8. It could have been a top ten finish. This is racing! Now onto Sepang for the last race of this triple header.”

Results MotoGP Thai Grand Prix

1. Francesco Bagnaia (ITA) Ducati 43:38.108
2. Jorge Martin (ESP) Ducati +2.905
3. Pedro Acosta (ESP) Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 +3.800
5. Jack Miller (AUS) KTM +5.532
6. Brad Binder (RSA) KTM +5.898
DNF. Augusto Fernandez (ESP) Red Bull GASGAS Tech3

World Championship standings MotoGP

1. Jorge Martin (ESP) Ducati, 453 points
2. Francesco Bagnaia (ITA) Ducati, 436
3. Marc Marquez (ESP) Ducati, 356
5. Brad Binder (RSA) Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, 203
6. Pedro Acosta (ESP) Red Bull GASGAS Tech3, 197
14. Jack Miller (AUS) Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, 82
21. Augusto Fernandez (ESP) Red Bull GASGAS Tech3, 21

Moto3

Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 fired into action at Buriram with Moto3. The grey skies and humidity contained high air temperatures and the track began to dry but not quite enough for the Moto3 hordes and the race was declared wet and reduced in duration from 19 to 12 laps. Daniel Holgado and Jacob Roulstone lined-up in 7th and 19th positions. The Spaniard filtered into the second group of six riders and the Australian was a little further back. The dry line widened, and the pace increased but Daniel was too far adrift of the top ten and took 12th. Jacob managed 15th and the final point after recovering from outside the top twenty.

Moto2: Results From The PT Grand Prix In Thailand

Ai Ogura. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) wins the battle at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand after an incredible ride for the #44 in testing conditions. Canet took the lead in the opening laps, maintaining his advantage in the latter stages as the red flag was shown due to weather conditions. Canet won by 2.523s from Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI), who crossed the line in second, which proved to be good enough to be crowned the 2024 Moto2™ World Champion. It was a hard-fought race for the #79, creating history by becoming the first Asia Talent Cup rider to become Grand Prix World Champion. Ogura crossed the line to beat Marcos Ramirez (OnlyFans American Racing Team) in P3.

Ogura secured a dream holeshot at Turn 1 before Canet attacked early, carving his way into the lead at Turn 3. The #79 did not take long to respond, with Ogura and Canet trading blows throughout the opening lap. However, everything got close at the final corner, with firm moves being made at the final corner – forcing Ogura to run wide and drop to P7.

It was a tough opening lap for Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp), bringing an end to any hopes of a strong result in Thailand. Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) was involved in the incident, with his race also ending at Turn 5.

Ogura chipped away, entering sixth after Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) ran wide at Turn 5, dropping the #21 outside the top 10. The #79 had to finish inside the top five spots to wrap up the Championship in Thailand as Canet continued to lead. The key move came on Lap 7, with the Japanese star finding a way through on Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP’s Darryn Binder.

At the front, Canet extended his margin to three-tenths from Ramirez, who made an incredible start from fourth on the grid. Meanwhile, the battle for P3 ignited, with Ogura passing Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) and beginning to pile the pressure on Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team).

Ogura created an opportunity on Lap 10, clawing his way into the podium places, with sights set on winning the World Championship. Four laps later, the next move arrived for Ogura, stealing second from Ramirez and setting sights on the one-second gap to Canet.

There were spots of rain in the air, adding to the drama at Buriram as Canet maintained his advantage. Further back, home hero Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) began to make moves, charging into the top five before starting to duel with Moreira for fourth.

Everything soon changed as the red flag was shown, bringing an early end to proceeding as the rain got heavier, allowing Canet to secure the win, while Ogura became the first Japanese rider to claim the World Champion since 2009, and Ramirez celebrated a well-earned podium on Sunday.

Chantra took a popular P4 finish, finding incredible pace in the latter stages to the delight of the home crowd. The #35 impressed, beating Moreira, who claimed the final spot inside the top five. Meanwhile, Izan Guevara completed a strong day, bagging sixth place for the CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team and beating teammate Dixon, who took the flag ahead of Albert Arenas (Gresini Moto2™) on a historic day at the Chang International Circuit.

Meanwhile, Round 16 winner Manuel Gonzalez (Gresini Moto2™) and Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Deniz Öncü took the final spots inside the top 10, with Lopez missing out in P11. Sergio Garcia was 12th in a great day for MT Helmets – MSI as Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team’s Ayumu Sasaki took 13th, Filip Salac (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) claimed 14th and Jorge Navarro (OnlyFans American Racing Team) bagged the final point.

Moto2 race Classification
moto2 race worldstanding

Moto3: Results From the PT Grand Prix In Thailand

David Alonso (80). Photo courtesy Dorna.

David Alonso (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) continues to etch his name into the history books at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand, securing a 12th victory of the season and creating history as the rider to win the most races in one season in the lightweight class. Rain or shine, Alonso proved to be in the mix, charging to win by 0.353s from Luca Lunetta (SIC58 Squadra Corse) after the Italian found incredible pace in tricky conditions. Lunetta was impressive as Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) grabbed the final spot on the podium after a dramatic run to the line.

It was declared a wet race start, meaning a reduced distance of 12 laps and an opportunity for the Moto3™ field to complete multiple sighting laps after every session throughout the weekend was dry. It was a choice of tyres on the grid, with the majority of the field opting for slicks as Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) claimed the holeshot and stormed into the lead at Turn 1.

It was a dramatic start, with Veijer not waiting long to pounce – stealing the lead from the Australian. The #66 responded on lap, bunching up the lead group as Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) created opportunities after carving his way inside the top five. The #48 attacked Kelso early after the polesitter was demoted to P5 after a tough Lap 3.

Meanwhile, it was soon Alonso’s time to shine as spots of rain fell onto the circuit. The Colombian snatched the lead on Lap 4, setting sights on a 12th win of the season and the opportunity to create history in Thailand. Alonso had steep competition on his hands as Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia), who had his first opportunity in P1 and began to put the hammer down.

Lunetta began to make inroads, catching the back of the lead group after a stunning pace. The Italian soon began to duel with Veijer as the #58 set sights on the podium. There was then drama at the front for the Leopard Racing squad, with Angel Piqueras and Adrian Fernandez colliding on Lap 11.

It was a grandstand finish, with Ortola and Alonso going head-to-head on the 12th and final lap. Alonso made the move stick, storming to glory in Thailand as Lunetta and Veijer were able to pinch the podium from Ortola, who ran wide at the final corner. Furusato had a disappointing end, crashing on the run to the line after contact with the #95.

Fourth place was taken by Ortola, unable to hold onto the podium after a difficult final corner. Furusato rounded out the top five after suffering a fall to the line, with David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) chasing behind in sixth – battling his way from P17 on the grid. Muñoz pipped teammate Kelso to the line as Scott Ogden (FleetSafe Honda – MLav Racing) took the flag in a strong eighth.

Further back, Stefano Nepa (LEVELUP – MTA) and Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP’s Tatsuki Suzuki rounded out a competitive top 10. The #24 was ahead of compatriot Ryusei Yamanaka in 11th, with Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), Riccardo Rossi (CIP Green Power), Filippo Farioli (SIC58 Squadra Corse) and Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Jose Antonio Rueda scoring the final points on Sunday.

Moto3 race Classification
Moto3 race worldstanding

MotoGP: Marquez Leads Sunday Warmup In Thailand

Marc Marquez led a wet Sunday MotoGP warmup session at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand. Jorge Martin was second, ahead of Luca Marini on a Repsol Honda. Franco Morbidelli, Pedro Acosta and Jack Miller completed the top six.

MotoGP warmupClassification

 

MotoGP: Sprint Race Results From PT Grand Prix Of Thailand

Enea Bastianini (23). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) has charged to victory at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand, taking glory by 1.357s after a sublime performance in the Tissot Sprint. ‘The Beast’ took the lead on the opening lap, keeping calm and setting a relentless pace to allow Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) no chance to respond in second. It was a crucial day for the Championship, with Martin bagging second position and extending his Championship lead to 22 points over title rival Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team). The Italian was unable to finish higher than third, with everything still to play for on Sunday.

Once the lights went out, Bagnaia made a phenomenal launch from pole position, taking a slight advantage on the run to Turn 1. However, Martin was on the attack at Turn 1, launching a move down the inside before running wide and dropping to fifth on the opening lap. The #89 was now left with work to do as throughout all the drama, Bastianini was promoted into the lead after a strong start for ‘The Beast’.

Martin began to work hard, putting the hammer down and finding a way through Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) on Lap 2 before setting sights on Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™). Martin soon found his way into the podium places after a textbook move on Marc Marquez at the final corner.

At the front, Bastianini threw down an early gauntlet, stretching his lead to nearly one second – setting the fastest lap in the process. Then drama began to unfold further back as Acosta’s hopes of a strong result were soon crushed at Turn 3 after a crash which would later see the #31 retire to the pitlane.

Further back, Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team’s Marco Bezzecchi and Fabio Di Giannantonio had a battle of their own. The Italians continued their battle throughout the Sprint as Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) began to drop down the order after climbing to P6 in the opening stages.

Martin began to edge closer to the reigning World Champion, following his shadow before making the key move on Lap 7. Martin would make the move stick, running wide on the exit and causing the Spaniard to receive a track limits warning. It was building to be a tense finale, with the title rivals separated by a mere 0.350s on the circuit. Bagnaia continued to pile on the pressure at every corner in an enthralling end to Saturday’s action.

On the final lap, nobody was able to match Bastianini’s pace, with the #23 soaring to victory in Thailand. Bastianini took victory by over one second from Martin, who crucially extended his title advantage to 22 points to title rival Bagnaia ahead of Sunday.

Marc Marquez crossed the line in fourth, grabbing some strong points after the #93 was unable to match the pace of the top three. The eight-time World Champion finished ahead of teammate Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), who rounded out the top five positions after a sensational ride. The Spaniard had to work hard in the closing laps, with Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing) finishing a further 0.947s behind in sixth. Meanwhile, Bezzecchi and Di Giannantonio continued their intense fight to the line as Binder could only watch, clinching ninth and the final point of the Sprint.

MotoGP Sprint Classification

MotoGP: Bagnaia On Pole With New Lap Record In Thailand

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) has secured an incredible pole position at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand, unleashing his full potential and clocking an unbelievable 1:28.700. The #1 set a stunning time on his final run, claiming pole position as he prepares to start ahead of teammate Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team). ‘The Beast’ was 0.232s adrift and was the only other rider who was able to leap into the 1:28 bracket. Bastianini will crucially start in front of Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), who held onto the final spot on the front row after suffering a crash on his final run.

The MotoGP™ stars had one last opportunity to prepare for qualifying on Saturday morning, with FP2 kickstarting the day. Marc Marquez took FP2 honours ahead of Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing), setting the stage nicely for qualifying. Once Q1 began, it was a remarkable pace from Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), who took an early advantage on the first run. The action continued into the final seconds, with sector times tumbling and Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) earning a spot in Q2 alongside Di Giannantonio.

Then after a few quiet moments, track action resumed as the battle for pole position commenced. It was a blistering start to the session, with Bagnaia going under the lap record, setting a 1:29.076 and becoming the new reference after the first run. In the closing moments of the session, Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) made another Q2 mistake, crashing at Turn 3 while sitting in P4. Moments later, Bagnaia uncorked a lap inside the 1:28s as Martin crashed at Turn 5, quickly followed by teammate Morbidelli.

Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) found time, climbing to fourth on the grid as he prepares to head the second row. The Italian will start alongside Marc Marquez, who will start from P5 despite a crash at Turn 3. The Spaniard will set sights on returning to the podium at the Chang International Circuit but faces steep competition as Quartararo joins the #93 on the second row after the Frenchman extracted the maximum from his Yamaha – battling through Q1.

Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) will start from seventh, with the rookie continuing to put in an impressive showing in Thailand. Acosta placed as the top Pierer Mobility and will start ahead of the fighting fit Di Giannantonio, who launches from a solid eighth – just 0.735s adrift. Meanwhile, Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) was able to secure the final spot on row three, setting a 1:29.527.

Further back, Morbidelli will start from 11th, ending Q2 ahead of Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) after both riders suffered crashes in qualifying. Meanwhile, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Brad Binder and Jack Miller have work to do on the opening laps, starting from 13th and 15th on the grid, as Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) also prepares for a tough task, starting from P14 after a difficult weekend so far in Thailand.

MotoGP qualifying Classification

Moto2: Ogura Takes Pole In Thailand

Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI) has clinched a vital pole position at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand after setting a 1:34.728. It is a potential title-deciding weekend at the Chang International Circuit, with Ogura qualifying ahead of Aron Canet (Fantic Racing). The Spaniard took second and now has a tough task ahead to keep his title hopes alive after missing out on pole due to a mistake in the final sector. Canet will be joined by Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team) on the front row of the grid after an impressive time by the Brazilian left him a mere 0.074s adrift from P1.

It was an intense Practice 2 session to start Saturday, with Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI) showing his dominance by topping the standings and claiming a 0.247s advantage over the field. It was a packed Q1 session, with home hero Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) amongst the names who were forced to battle for a spot inside the top four. Then in Q1, Chantra found time, bagging a spot in Q2 at home with Darryn Binder (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI) and Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team’s Ayumu Sasaki in pursuit.

As Q2 went green, it was a strong initial pace from Ogura, replicating the pace shown from the #79 on Saturday morning with Sasaki in his shadow. It was soon to be a busy final five minutes, with improvements coming throughout the field and Canet beginning to find improvements. Red sectors began to show, with Canet unable to find further time on his final flying lap after a moment at the final corner.

Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) ends Q2 in fourth position, but the Italian will have to serve a three-place grid penalty after an incident on Friday. The #14 finished the session in front of OnlyFans American Racing Team’s Marcos Ramirez, who continues a great weekend in Thailand. Ramirez ends the session in fifth ahead of Filip Salac (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team), who set the sixth fastest time of the session.

Albert Arenas (Gresini Moto2™) had a strong Q2, working hard throughout and placed seventh in the timesheets, with the #75 to be promoted to the second row due to Arbolino’s penalty. Meanwhile, Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) will start on the third row, unable to find further time to battle for pole. The #54 is ahead of Garcia, who put together a strong qualifying after charging through Q1. Further back, Chantra will start from 13th on the grid, while Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) could only manage P14.

Moto2 qualifying Classification

Moto3: Kelso On Pole In Thailand

Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) has clinched his first Moto3™ pole after an incredible late lap at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand. The #66 set a 1:40.603 and has become the first Australian to claim pole in lightweight class since Jack Miller in 2014. Kelso worked hard in the closing minutes, beating Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) to P1 by 0.073s. The Dutchman was one of the first riders to exit pitlane on the final run, grabbing a front row start for Sunday. Meanwhile, Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing) was unable to improve on his second run, missing out on pole after looking strong in the opening stages of Q2.

Practice 2 saw further drama begin to unfold on Saturday morning, with Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) becoming the new pacesetter after clocking a stunning 1:40.577, which set the stage for qualifying. Once Q1 began, fast times began to be set, with Filippo Farioli (SIC58 Squadra Corse) topping the standings and earning a Q2 spot alongside Matteo Bertelle (Kopron Rivacold Snipers Team), Joel Esteban (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) and LEVELUP – MTA’s Stefano Nepa.

As Q2 got underway, there was instant action, with Piqueras launching an early benchmark – sitting comfortably in P1 after the first run. Tension began to build as the second run began, with the Moto3™ stars looking for the prime spot on the circuit. Piqueras remained at the top as a group of riders left pitlane too late to set a time on their final run, leaving a handful of riders to duel for pole, with Kelso coming out on top.

Furusato maintained his impressive form on Saturday, leapfrogging to fourth on the grid – spearheading the second row. The #72 starts ahead of the newly crowned Moto3™ World Champion, who missed out on a final run – claiming P5 on the grid. The Colombian has shown encouraging pace throughout the weekend and will be joined on the second row by FleetSafe Honda – MLav Racing’s Scott Ogden after a great qualifying for the #19.

Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) will start from seventh on the grid, aiming to replicate his pace from Australia. Holgado has tough competition on the third row, with David Almansa (Kopron Rivacold Snipers Team) and Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) joining the #96. Further back, Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and BOE Motorsports’ David Muñoz are left with work to do from 16th and 17th.

Moto3 qualifying Classification

 

MotoGP: Marquez Tops Final Practice In Thailand

Marc Marquez was fastest in the final MotoGP practice session at the PT Grand Prix in Thailand. Marquez led Franco Morbidelli, Francesco Bagnaia, Jorge Martin and Pedro Acosta ahead of qualifying.

MotoGP FP2 Classification

Moto2: Ogura Under Lap Record In Saturday Practice In Thailand

Ai Ogura led Aron Canet and Diogo Moreira in the final Moto2 practice session at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand. Ogura’s 1:34.595 was a new lap record for Moto2 machines at Chang International Raceway.

M2 practice 2 Classification

MotoGP: Results From The PT Grand Prix In Thailand

Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Francesco Bagnaia (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Francesco Bagnaia won a wet PT Grand Prix of Thailand over title rival Jorge Martin. Pedro Acosta finished third. Marc Marquez ran second early in the race and threatened Bagnaia for the lead before crashing and remounting. He was classified 12th. There were only 16 finishers.

MotoGP race Classification
MotoGP race worldstanding

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

#TheRematch: Bagnaia takes the fight to Martin with stunning wet weather win in Thailand

The #1 stays calm under pressure to escape his title rival and take his first wet weather win in MotoGP™ as Marquez and Bastianini crash at Buriram

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) reigned supreme with a stunning wet weather win under pressure at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand. The #1 battled Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) for the lead before the #93 crashed out of contention, leaving Bagnaia to steel his nerves and get the hammer down at the front to escape Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) by nearly three seconds. With that statement made, the gap at the top is back down to just 17 points with two race weekends remaining, and it’s now officially two contenders for the crown. #TheRematch is on!

Pecco Bagnaia (1) leads Jorge Martin (89) at the front of the Thai GP. Dorna photo.

Behind that battle there was another, with Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) claiming the final spot on the podium after a stunning showdown against Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jack Miller.

There was drama before the Grand Prix began, with the wet conditions catching out Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) on the sighting lap. He made the start though, and as the skies above Buriram continued to brood, the lights went out to decide the winner of the 2024 Thai Grand Prix.

Martin made a rocket start, snatching the advantage on the run to Turn 1 as a shuffle through there saw Bagnaia emerge in second, Marquez move up to third and Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) lose out as Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) went on the attack.

The Championship rivals began to duel – locking horns on the opening laps as Martin went wide, Bagnaia took over but the #89 responded swiftly as he sliced past the Italian at Turn 4. Martin began to extend his lead to almost half a second, shadowed by Bagnaia, with Marquez on their tail as Acosta duelled Quartararo in their wake. The rookie then sailed well wide, giving himself work to do as Quartararo suffered a worse fate following contact from Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing). The Italian was given a Long Lap, and the Frenchman was forced to rejoin at the back.

Back at the front, the first frisson of drama came on Lap 5 as Martin made a crucial error, running wide at Turn 3 and dropping down to third position – behind Marc Marquez. That gave Bagnaia the lead and made it a different tone of Jaws music for the reigning Champion as the #93 continued to shadow him.

Marc Marquez (93) challenged Francesco Bagnaia (1) before crashing again. Dorna photo.

More drama hit in the meantime, as Morbidelli’s day soon went from bad to worse, crashing out at Turn 8, moments before Bastianini’s Grand Prix also came to a halt at Turn 8, with the #23 losing the front and ending any hopes of scoring strong points on Lap 9 – after Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) had also slid out.

Meanwhile, Marc Marquez began his charge for victory, sending a move down the inside at the final corner. It was repelled. The #93 began to pile on the pressure though, with Martin lurking and waiting for an opportunity to pounce in P3. Marc Marquez sent his next attack on Lap 13, unable to make the move stick, with Bagnaia fighting back.

Marc Marquez continued to push to the limit, but then he pushed over it. The #93 made a crucial mistake at Turn 8 – skitting across the track on his knee and almost, almost saving it, but it wasn’t to be. The eight-time World Champion was on the floor on Lap 14, promoting Martin into P2. #TheRematch was all but guaranteed, and the top two were now leading the race – in reverse order.

Bagnaia pounded on at the front, with Martin not able to home in but this now a battle of nerves. It was a nail-biting finale to the Grand Prix at the front as the laps ticked down for what must have seemed like hours for Bagnaia, but behind we were treated to an incredible show of a different kind.

After his earlier dramas, Acosta was back on terms with Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and managed to slice past the South African, then next up was Miller. The Australian put up a stunning fight as the two went toe-to-toe, sideways and all which ways in a high-speed game of chicken, but in the end the rookie was able to make it stick.

Pedro Acosta (31) stayed upright in tricky conditions to finish third on his GasGas-branded KTM RC16. Dorna photo.

At the head of the field, Bagnaia sealed the deal. Nearly three seconds clear and taking his first wet weather MotoGP™ win when he needed one most, the reigning Champion cuts it back down to 17 points ahead of the final two races. With plenty on the line too, Martin’s composure in second ensures it’s still some gap at least – to falter would have been to cede the title lead. And he didn’t.

Acosta completed the podium after his late charge, in the end finishing ahead of Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) as the Italian put in his own final bout of glory. Miller was forced to settle for fifth, ahead of teammate Binder, with Aprilia Racing rider Maverick Viñales next up. The #12 was a further 2.60s behind, crossing the line in front of CASTROL Honda LCR’s Johann Zarco in P8 who takes Honda’s best GP result of the season so far.

Meanwhile, Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) and Alex Marquez rounded out the top 10 after a dramatic Thai GP. Marc Marquez recovered to 11th, walking away with key points after beating Luca Marini (Repsol Honda Team), Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR), Bastianini and Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team), with the #36 securing the final point. Marquez also had to drop a position and did so somewhat contentiously, having earlier made contact with Mir.

So that’s it. A day that could have seen everything turn on its head instead turns the screw at the top of the standings, and the rematch now begins. Martin, Bagnaia, 17 points and one crown. There are only two weekends to go, so don’t miss the next one as we head for the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia with everything on the line.


More, from a press release issued by GasGas:


MotoGP™ podium in Thailand as Acosta is back with a bang!

MotoGP 2024 – Round 18 of 20, Buriram, Thailand – Race

Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 returned to the sweet haze of podium Prosecco after a stunning performance by Pedro Acosta in wet conditions at Buriram delivered the crew’s fifth trophy of 2024. The Spaniard moved up from 7th on the grid to seize 3rd with two laps to go and bagged his first rostrum appearance since the round 15 in Indonesia. Augusto Fernandez ran top eight at the overcast venue northeast of Bangkok but a late fall meant a DNF.

Acosta pockets 16 points for a rocket display in the Thai drizzle and his first MotoGP wet-weather podium score

Fernandez motors hard from a grid spot of 16th to fight for top ten places but crashes out
Daniel Holgado takes 12th in Moto3™ as teammate Jacob Roulstone snares the last point in 15th

The fifth Grand Prix of Thailand had enjoyed heat and sunshine across Friday and Saturday but the teams arrived at the circuit in Buriram on Sunday morning to be greeted by wet asphalt and overcast skies. By the time of the 26-lap MotoGP race in the afternoon the track was still shimmering and soaking and was tricky for judging grip and visibility.

Pedro Acosta and Augusto Fernandez began the Grand Prix from the third and sixth rows of the grid. Acosta took some time to feel his limits and potential but then passed three riders to move into podium contention and P3 by the flag. Augusto was busy scrapping inside the top ten and was demonstrating strong speed and potential. His fall came three laps before the end of the race.

The last phase of the final triple header will take place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia next weekend and the 2024 season will close with the Valencian Grand Prix in three weeks’ time.

Pedro Acosta, 3rd: “Super-nice! It was a race where I was trying to stay calm and do everything in the right way and, after a few races where we did not finish, I wanted to be strong. We need to be happy. I want to thank the team for an amazing job because every time that we try something we are improving. I think we are making a good job in arriving where we want to go.”

Augusto Fernandez, DNF “A shame to finish like this but I was trying to save the front end and just crashed. I made a mistake and trying to recover the position I perhaps pushed a bit too much. After all race being in the group and seeing the result possible…a shame. The top eight was there. We’ll move onto Malaysia now.”

Nicolas Goyon, GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 Team Manager: “An unbelievable end to the Thai Grand Prix and the end to a few tricky races we’ve had. We knew we could perform well here and clearly the target today was to see the checkered flag in the best way. When we saw the rain we also thought we could hope for a bit more. This was Pedro’s first MotoGP race in the wet and he avoided any mistakes to make the podium and be where he wants to be. We are still in the fight for the top five of the championship as well. Augusto’s potential is very high in the wet and he wanted to show good form but unfortunately he crashed while he was in P8. It could have been a top ten finish. This is racing! Now onto Sepang for the last race of this triple header.”

Results MotoGP Thai Grand Prix

1. Francesco Bagnaia (ITA) Ducati 43:38.108
2. Jorge Martin (ESP) Ducati +2.905
3. Pedro Acosta (ESP) Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 +3.800
5. Jack Miller (AUS) KTM +5.532
6. Brad Binder (RSA) KTM +5.898
DNF. Augusto Fernandez (ESP) Red Bull GASGAS Tech3

World Championship standings MotoGP

1. Jorge Martin (ESP) Ducati, 453 points
2. Francesco Bagnaia (ITA) Ducati, 436
3. Marc Marquez (ESP) Ducati, 356
5. Brad Binder (RSA) Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, 203
6. Pedro Acosta (ESP) Red Bull GASGAS Tech3, 197
14. Jack Miller (AUS) Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, 82
21. Augusto Fernandez (ESP) Red Bull GASGAS Tech3, 21

Moto3

Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 fired into action at Buriram with Moto3. The grey skies and humidity contained high air temperatures and the track began to dry but not quite enough for the Moto3 hordes and the race was declared wet and reduced in duration from 19 to 12 laps. Daniel Holgado and Jacob Roulstone lined-up in 7th and 19th positions. The Spaniard filtered into the second group of six riders and the Australian was a little further back. The dry line widened, and the pace increased but Daniel was too far adrift of the top ten and took 12th. Jacob managed 15th and the final point after recovering from outside the top twenty.

Moto2: Results From The PT Grand Prix In Thailand

Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Ai Ogura. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) wins the battle at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand after an incredible ride for the #44 in testing conditions. Canet took the lead in the opening laps, maintaining his advantage in the latter stages as the red flag was shown due to weather conditions. Canet won by 2.523s from Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI), who crossed the line in second, which proved to be good enough to be crowned the 2024 Moto2™ World Champion. It was a hard-fought race for the #79, creating history by becoming the first Asia Talent Cup rider to become Grand Prix World Champion. Ogura crossed the line to beat Marcos Ramirez (OnlyFans American Racing Team) in P3.

Ogura secured a dream holeshot at Turn 1 before Canet attacked early, carving his way into the lead at Turn 3. The #79 did not take long to respond, with Ogura and Canet trading blows throughout the opening lap. However, everything got close at the final corner, with firm moves being made at the final corner – forcing Ogura to run wide and drop to P7.

It was a tough opening lap for Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp), bringing an end to any hopes of a strong result in Thailand. Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) was involved in the incident, with his race also ending at Turn 5.

Ogura chipped away, entering sixth after Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) ran wide at Turn 5, dropping the #21 outside the top 10. The #79 had to finish inside the top five spots to wrap up the Championship in Thailand as Canet continued to lead. The key move came on Lap 7, with the Japanese star finding a way through on Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP’s Darryn Binder.

At the front, Canet extended his margin to three-tenths from Ramirez, who made an incredible start from fourth on the grid. Meanwhile, the battle for P3 ignited, with Ogura passing Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) and beginning to pile the pressure on Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team).

Ogura created an opportunity on Lap 10, clawing his way into the podium places, with sights set on winning the World Championship. Four laps later, the next move arrived for Ogura, stealing second from Ramirez and setting sights on the one-second gap to Canet.

There were spots of rain in the air, adding to the drama at Buriram as Canet maintained his advantage. Further back, home hero Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) began to make moves, charging into the top five before starting to duel with Moreira for fourth.

Everything soon changed as the red flag was shown, bringing an early end to proceeding as the rain got heavier, allowing Canet to secure the win, while Ogura became the first Japanese rider to claim the World Champion since 2009, and Ramirez celebrated a well-earned podium on Sunday.

Chantra took a popular P4 finish, finding incredible pace in the latter stages to the delight of the home crowd. The #35 impressed, beating Moreira, who claimed the final spot inside the top five. Meanwhile, Izan Guevara completed a strong day, bagging sixth place for the CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team and beating teammate Dixon, who took the flag ahead of Albert Arenas (Gresini Moto2™) on a historic day at the Chang International Circuit.

Meanwhile, Round 16 winner Manuel Gonzalez (Gresini Moto2™) and Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Deniz Öncü took the final spots inside the top 10, with Lopez missing out in P11. Sergio Garcia was 12th in a great day for MT Helmets – MSI as Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team’s Ayumu Sasaki took 13th, Filip Salac (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) claimed 14th and Jorge Navarro (OnlyFans American Racing Team) bagged the final point.

Moto2 race Classification
moto2 race worldstanding

Moto3: Results From the PT Grand Prix In Thailand

Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
David Alonso (80). Photo courtesy Dorna.

David Alonso (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) continues to etch his name into the history books at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand, securing a 12th victory of the season and creating history as the rider to win the most races in one season in the lightweight class. Rain or shine, Alonso proved to be in the mix, charging to win by 0.353s from Luca Lunetta (SIC58 Squadra Corse) after the Italian found incredible pace in tricky conditions. Lunetta was impressive as Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) grabbed the final spot on the podium after a dramatic run to the line.

It was declared a wet race start, meaning a reduced distance of 12 laps and an opportunity for the Moto3™ field to complete multiple sighting laps after every session throughout the weekend was dry. It was a choice of tyres on the grid, with the majority of the field opting for slicks as Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) claimed the holeshot and stormed into the lead at Turn 1.

It was a dramatic start, with Veijer not waiting long to pounce – stealing the lead from the Australian. The #66 responded on lap, bunching up the lead group as Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) created opportunities after carving his way inside the top five. The #48 attacked Kelso early after the polesitter was demoted to P5 after a tough Lap 3.

Meanwhile, it was soon Alonso’s time to shine as spots of rain fell onto the circuit. The Colombian snatched the lead on Lap 4, setting sights on a 12th win of the season and the opportunity to create history in Thailand. Alonso had steep competition on his hands as Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia), who had his first opportunity in P1 and began to put the hammer down.

Lunetta began to make inroads, catching the back of the lead group after a stunning pace. The Italian soon began to duel with Veijer as the #58 set sights on the podium. There was then drama at the front for the Leopard Racing squad, with Angel Piqueras and Adrian Fernandez colliding on Lap 11.

It was a grandstand finish, with Ortola and Alonso going head-to-head on the 12th and final lap. Alonso made the move stick, storming to glory in Thailand as Lunetta and Veijer were able to pinch the podium from Ortola, who ran wide at the final corner. Furusato had a disappointing end, crashing on the run to the line after contact with the #95.

Fourth place was taken by Ortola, unable to hold onto the podium after a difficult final corner. Furusato rounded out the top five after suffering a fall to the line, with David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) chasing behind in sixth – battling his way from P17 on the grid. Muñoz pipped teammate Kelso to the line as Scott Ogden (FleetSafe Honda – MLav Racing) took the flag in a strong eighth.

Further back, Stefano Nepa (LEVELUP – MTA) and Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP’s Tatsuki Suzuki rounded out a competitive top 10. The #24 was ahead of compatriot Ryusei Yamanaka in 11th, with Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), Riccardo Rossi (CIP Green Power), Filippo Farioli (SIC58 Squadra Corse) and Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Jose Antonio Rueda scoring the final points on Sunday.

Moto3 race Classification
Moto3 race worldstanding

MotoGP: Marquez Leads Sunday Warmup In Thailand

Marc Marquez (93). Photo copurtesy Dorna.

Marc Marquez led a wet Sunday MotoGP warmup session at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand. Jorge Martin was second, ahead of Luca Marini on a Repsol Honda. Franco Morbidelli, Pedro Acosta and Jack Miller completed the top six.

MotoGP warmupClassification

 

MotoGP: Sprint Race Results From PT Grand Prix Of Thailand

Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Enea Bastianini (23). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) has charged to victory at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand, taking glory by 1.357s after a sublime performance in the Tissot Sprint. ‘The Beast’ took the lead on the opening lap, keeping calm and setting a relentless pace to allow Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) no chance to respond in second. It was a crucial day for the Championship, with Martin bagging second position and extending his Championship lead to 22 points over title rival Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team). The Italian was unable to finish higher than third, with everything still to play for on Sunday.

Once the lights went out, Bagnaia made a phenomenal launch from pole position, taking a slight advantage on the run to Turn 1. However, Martin was on the attack at Turn 1, launching a move down the inside before running wide and dropping to fifth on the opening lap. The #89 was now left with work to do as throughout all the drama, Bastianini was promoted into the lead after a strong start for ‘The Beast’.

Martin began to work hard, putting the hammer down and finding a way through Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) on Lap 2 before setting sights on Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™). Martin soon found his way into the podium places after a textbook move on Marc Marquez at the final corner.

At the front, Bastianini threw down an early gauntlet, stretching his lead to nearly one second – setting the fastest lap in the process. Then drama began to unfold further back as Acosta’s hopes of a strong result were soon crushed at Turn 3 after a crash which would later see the #31 retire to the pitlane.

Further back, Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team’s Marco Bezzecchi and Fabio Di Giannantonio had a battle of their own. The Italians continued their battle throughout the Sprint as Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) began to drop down the order after climbing to P6 in the opening stages.

Martin began to edge closer to the reigning World Champion, following his shadow before making the key move on Lap 7. Martin would make the move stick, running wide on the exit and causing the Spaniard to receive a track limits warning. It was building to be a tense finale, with the title rivals separated by a mere 0.350s on the circuit. Bagnaia continued to pile on the pressure at every corner in an enthralling end to Saturday’s action.

On the final lap, nobody was able to match Bastianini’s pace, with the #23 soaring to victory in Thailand. Bastianini took victory by over one second from Martin, who crucially extended his title advantage to 22 points to title rival Bagnaia ahead of Sunday.

Marc Marquez crossed the line in fourth, grabbing some strong points after the #93 was unable to match the pace of the top three. The eight-time World Champion finished ahead of teammate Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), who rounded out the top five positions after a sensational ride. The Spaniard had to work hard in the closing laps, with Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing) finishing a further 0.947s behind in sixth. Meanwhile, Bezzecchi and Di Giannantonio continued their intense fight to the line as Binder could only watch, clinching ninth and the final point of the Sprint.

MotoGP Sprint Classification

MotoGP: Bagnaia On Pole With New Lap Record In Thailand

Francesco Bagnaia (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) has secured an incredible pole position at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand, unleashing his full potential and clocking an unbelievable 1:28.700. The #1 set a stunning time on his final run, claiming pole position as he prepares to start ahead of teammate Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team). ‘The Beast’ was 0.232s adrift and was the only other rider who was able to leap into the 1:28 bracket. Bastianini will crucially start in front of Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), who held onto the final spot on the front row after suffering a crash on his final run.

The MotoGP™ stars had one last opportunity to prepare for qualifying on Saturday morning, with FP2 kickstarting the day. Marc Marquez took FP2 honours ahead of Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing), setting the stage nicely for qualifying. Once Q1 began, it was a remarkable pace from Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), who took an early advantage on the first run. The action continued into the final seconds, with sector times tumbling and Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) earning a spot in Q2 alongside Di Giannantonio.

Then after a few quiet moments, track action resumed as the battle for pole position commenced. It was a blistering start to the session, with Bagnaia going under the lap record, setting a 1:29.076 and becoming the new reference after the first run. In the closing moments of the session, Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) made another Q2 mistake, crashing at Turn 3 while sitting in P4. Moments later, Bagnaia uncorked a lap inside the 1:28s as Martin crashed at Turn 5, quickly followed by teammate Morbidelli.

Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) found time, climbing to fourth on the grid as he prepares to head the second row. The Italian will start alongside Marc Marquez, who will start from P5 despite a crash at Turn 3. The Spaniard will set sights on returning to the podium at the Chang International Circuit but faces steep competition as Quartararo joins the #93 on the second row after the Frenchman extracted the maximum from his Yamaha – battling through Q1.

Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) will start from seventh, with the rookie continuing to put in an impressive showing in Thailand. Acosta placed as the top Pierer Mobility and will start ahead of the fighting fit Di Giannantonio, who launches from a solid eighth – just 0.735s adrift. Meanwhile, Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) was able to secure the final spot on row three, setting a 1:29.527.

Further back, Morbidelli will start from 11th, ending Q2 ahead of Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) after both riders suffered crashes in qualifying. Meanwhile, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Brad Binder and Jack Miller have work to do on the opening laps, starting from 13th and 15th on the grid, as Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) also prepares for a tough task, starting from P14 after a difficult weekend so far in Thailand.

MotoGP qualifying Classification

Moto2: Ogura Takes Pole In Thailand

Ai Ogura (79). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI) has clinched a vital pole position at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand after setting a 1:34.728. It is a potential title-deciding weekend at the Chang International Circuit, with Ogura qualifying ahead of Aron Canet (Fantic Racing). The Spaniard took second and now has a tough task ahead to keep his title hopes alive after missing out on pole due to a mistake in the final sector. Canet will be joined by Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team) on the front row of the grid after an impressive time by the Brazilian left him a mere 0.074s adrift from P1.

It was an intense Practice 2 session to start Saturday, with Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI) showing his dominance by topping the standings and claiming a 0.247s advantage over the field. It was a packed Q1 session, with home hero Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) amongst the names who were forced to battle for a spot inside the top four. Then in Q1, Chantra found time, bagging a spot in Q2 at home with Darryn Binder (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI) and Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team’s Ayumu Sasaki in pursuit.

As Q2 went green, it was a strong initial pace from Ogura, replicating the pace shown from the #79 on Saturday morning with Sasaki in his shadow. It was soon to be a busy final five minutes, with improvements coming throughout the field and Canet beginning to find improvements. Red sectors began to show, with Canet unable to find further time on his final flying lap after a moment at the final corner.

Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) ends Q2 in fourth position, but the Italian will have to serve a three-place grid penalty after an incident on Friday. The #14 finished the session in front of OnlyFans American Racing Team’s Marcos Ramirez, who continues a great weekend in Thailand. Ramirez ends the session in fifth ahead of Filip Salac (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team), who set the sixth fastest time of the session.

Albert Arenas (Gresini Moto2™) had a strong Q2, working hard throughout and placed seventh in the timesheets, with the #75 to be promoted to the second row due to Arbolino’s penalty. Meanwhile, Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) will start on the third row, unable to find further time to battle for pole. The #54 is ahead of Garcia, who put together a strong qualifying after charging through Q1. Further back, Chantra will start from 13th on the grid, while Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) could only manage P14.

Moto2 qualifying Classification

Moto3: Kelso On Pole In Thailand

Joel Kelso. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) has clinched his first Moto3™ pole after an incredible late lap at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand. The #66 set a 1:40.603 and has become the first Australian to claim pole in lightweight class since Jack Miller in 2014. Kelso worked hard in the closing minutes, beating Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) to P1 by 0.073s. The Dutchman was one of the first riders to exit pitlane on the final run, grabbing a front row start for Sunday. Meanwhile, Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing) was unable to improve on his second run, missing out on pole after looking strong in the opening stages of Q2.

Practice 2 saw further drama begin to unfold on Saturday morning, with Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) becoming the new pacesetter after clocking a stunning 1:40.577, which set the stage for qualifying. Once Q1 began, fast times began to be set, with Filippo Farioli (SIC58 Squadra Corse) topping the standings and earning a Q2 spot alongside Matteo Bertelle (Kopron Rivacold Snipers Team), Joel Esteban (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) and LEVELUP – MTA’s Stefano Nepa.

As Q2 got underway, there was instant action, with Piqueras launching an early benchmark – sitting comfortably in P1 after the first run. Tension began to build as the second run began, with the Moto3™ stars looking for the prime spot on the circuit. Piqueras remained at the top as a group of riders left pitlane too late to set a time on their final run, leaving a handful of riders to duel for pole, with Kelso coming out on top.

Furusato maintained his impressive form on Saturday, leapfrogging to fourth on the grid – spearheading the second row. The #72 starts ahead of the newly crowned Moto3™ World Champion, who missed out on a final run – claiming P5 on the grid. The Colombian has shown encouraging pace throughout the weekend and will be joined on the second row by FleetSafe Honda – MLav Racing’s Scott Ogden after a great qualifying for the #19.

Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) will start from seventh on the grid, aiming to replicate his pace from Australia. Holgado has tough competition on the third row, with David Almansa (Kopron Rivacold Snipers Team) and Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) joining the #96. Further back, Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and BOE Motorsports’ David Muñoz are left with work to do from 16th and 17th.

Moto3 qualifying Classification

 

MotoGP: Marquez Tops Final Practice In Thailand

Marc Marquez (93). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Marc Marquez was fastest in the final MotoGP practice session at the PT Grand Prix in Thailand. Marquez led Franco Morbidelli, Francesco Bagnaia, Jorge Martin and Pedro Acosta ahead of qualifying.

MotoGP FP2 Classification

Moto2: Ogura Under Lap Record In Saturday Practice In Thailand

Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Ai Ogura led Aron Canet and Diogo Moreira in the final Moto2 practice session at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand. Ogura’s 1:34.595 was a new lap record for Moto2 machines at Chang International Raceway.

M2 practice 2 Classification
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