Jaume Masia was fastest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday at Lusail International Circuit, in Doha, Qatar. Riding his Leopard Racing Honda, the Championship point leader did a 2:06.794 to lead the field of 28 riders.
Moto3 FP2
Jorge Martin was quickest during MotoGP World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday at Lusail International Circuit, in Doha, Qatar. Riding his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati, the Spaniard covered the recently repaved 3.4-mile (5.4 km) course in 1:56.393 to lead the field of 22 riders.
Martin’s teammate Johann Zarco was second-best with a time of 1:56.565.
Defending World Champion and current point leader Francesco Bagnaia made it a Ducati 1-2-3 with a 1:56.622 on his Lenovo Team Ducati.
MotoGP FP1
Fermin Aldeguer topped Moto2 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday at Lusail International Circuit, in Doha, Qatar. The Beta Tools SpeedUp rider navigated the recently repaved 3.4-mile (5.4 km) course in 2:01.097 to top the field of 30 racers.
American Joe Roberts, the Moto2 All-Time Lap Record holder at Lusail, was 14th with a 2:03.418 on his Italtrans Racing Kalex.
Roberts’ countryman Sean Dylan Kelly (SDK) finished the session 21st with a lap of 2:04.269 on his Forward Team machine.
Moto2 FP1
Deniz Oncu was quickest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday at Lusail International Circuit, in Doha, Qatar. Riding his Red Bull KTM Ajo racebike, the Turkish racer lapped the recently repaved 3.4-mile (5.4 km) track in 2:09.404 to lead the field of 28 competitors.
Moto3 FP1
#PECCOvsMARTIN: “I’ll take the risk and gamble”
The two contenders join the pre-event Press Conference on Thursday before heading for an awesome photo call in Doha
Thursday, 16 November 2023
It all comes down to this: two contenders split by 14 points, a maximum of 74 still up for grabs, and two more weekends of competition for this season of the world’s most exciting sport. On Thursday at the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar, the pre-event Press Conference therefore had a predictable guest list in the best way, welcoming title contenders Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) ahead of a first potential match point for Pecco.
Both then headed to the city for a spectacular photo opportunity against the awesome backdrop of the city skyline. Here are some quotes and photos from touchdown in Doha!
On seeing the MotoGP™ Stories episode:
FRANCESCO BAGNAIA: “First of all, it’s strange to say that that was just seven years ago. It seems like it was a lot longer. But yeah, when Jorge arrived in the Mahindra team I’d already followed him in the Rookies Cup the year before and he was doing incredible things, so I was expecting to have a very strong teammate. The first test in the wet, he was already faster than me. So yeah, he’s been very, very competitive from the start. He needed time to adapt to everything because some riders arrive and assume that they’re competitive and other riders need more time. The fact that right now we are fighting for the title is great and I think Jorge, Aspar and Gino can be proud.”
How do you feel about your chances of getting the job done this weekend?
“I’m not considering this weekend as a match point, honestly I have to gain 23 points I think, and that’s too much in a single weekend. Jorge is doing a really great job and it will be more important to think session by session to work like we did last weekend in Sepang and try to be competitive. We know perfectly well that the tarmac has been resurfaced and it could be a great question for the tyres. I think it will be demanding on the tyres because it’s new. Let’s see. It’s a track that I like. We’ve always been competitive here, apart from last year when it was at the wrong part of the season. But the lap record is still mine and I think our bike suits very well to this circuit.”
The goal is to beat Martin this weekend?
“Yeah, maybe that would be better because 14 points to lead the championship is nothing, 37 points or weekend is a lot, so you can gain or lose a lot of points in one weekend. It will be important to stay calm and work well and try to do the maximum because last weekend he gained 3 points on Saturday and then lost four on Sunday, so it’s very balanced and I think it will be a head-to-head.”
What about Bastianini?
“I don’t know. I was quite clear with the team and I’ll always say that if he has the possibility to win and he’s in a situation that he needs to push. So let’s see, but for sure it’ll be OK to work together during the sessions, maybe. I always prefer to be alone, but maybe it’s time to work together.”
Reaction to the crash in 2022…
“We were there behind, pushing for seven points and I was on the limit. I was fighting with him and then nothing… I lost the front. It was worse for him because he became injured on the leathers, so it was quite scary for him. That wasn’t the ideal start to the season. We were in quite a bit of trouble at that point.”
On the new track surface:
“I think it will be better for everyone. New asphalt means more grip. We always arrive here in March when it’s cold at the beginning, so for me it will be better, but we need to see for the tyres because we will race in different conditions compared to the past years and it will be a lot hotter. It’ll be a big question for the tyres, for sure.”
Are you still happy to be sharing data when you’re fighting for the World Championship?
“It’s always been like this. He can see my data when I’m faster and I can see his data when he’s faster. So for me it’s the same. A good thing is that we ride in two different ways, so it’s also difficult to compare sometimes.”
Do you expect it to be a close battle here?
“Let’s see. I don’t know because the new asphalt can change a lot and in the past also last year, you need to control the tyres a lot. We were seeing fastest laps in the last laps last year so it will be tricky for sure an interesting. It would be nice to have a battle like in the past. I would be happy to be in the side of Andrea Dovizioso!”
On seeing the MotoGP™ Stories episode:
JORGE MARTIN: “I watched it this week, I really enjoyed it. I had a lot fun watching it, I was laughing by myself in my hotel room. It helped me disconnect a little. When I saw the video, I felt a lot of respect and remembered a lot of good moment with Pecco. For sure, at the time I never expected that we would be here sitting together and fighting for a MotoGP World Championship. It’s an honour to be here with Pecco, but now let’s go and win it.”
Is it now essential to cut the gap?
“Yeah for sure, I don’t know the maths, I just know I need to recover points. This is my target. I’m already second in the Championship even if I don’t ride in the next two races so I just need to attack and recover points.”
Out in the desert with Dakar Rally winner Nasser Al-Attiyah. Good way to relax?
“Yesterday was an amazing day. Thanks to Nasser, it was an amazing experience. I felt in Malaysia I was riding a little too blocked on Sunday. I was feeling like I was crashing at every corner and this didn’t help to go fast and smooth. Now it’s like I told you before, I’m already in second, I just can change to first so I will take the risks and maybe take some gambles to do it.”
Bastianini didn’t take too much risk against Pecco in the Sprint at Sepang, for example… does he have more friends out there?
“I don’t care about friends; I just care about myself. I feel if I can do my 100%, I can beat all of them so I am focused on the weekend and myself and if someone helps him or not, I can’t control it, so I don’t really care.”
On the new surface in Qatar:
“I didn’t have a look yet but as Pecco said there will be more grip with new asphalt. Tyres will be the key. We have a lot info from the past so maybe it will be useless. Maybe we have to start from zero and let’s try to be clever and fast to understand the situation.”
Ducati sharing data policy continues, or are there more secrets?
“For me it is the same, we are used to this. He knows my set up exactly because I almost never change! I think it’s like this. Battling for a Championship isn’t easy when you know your rival is looking at your data, but I’m also looking at his.”
Past battles in Qatar have been spectacular, do you expect a close battle this weekend?
“It will be super close for me. It’s difficult to understand now but it will be a close battle between all the fast riders. It’s a good chance to recover points but also a good chance to lose a lot of points. We need to be clever and fast and try to win it.”
Fans over the world are picking Team Pecco or Team Martin. Who would be dream celebrity fan?
“Difficult to say, Valentino was my idol so maybe him but that might be difficult! Let’s say Jason Statham!”
**Precision Track Days Announces Partial 2024 Schedule**
Acworth, GA [Nov 15,2024] – Precision Track Days, the newest track day provider in the southeast, is excited to unveil a portion of its much-anticipated 2024 track day schedule. This partial release showcases a diverse range of tracks, offering both new challenges and favorite classics to our valued community of track day enthusiasts.
The 2024 season will see the introduction of several new tracks to the Precision lineup, broadening our geographic reach and providing fresh experiences for our participants. These include renowned circuits such as JenningsGP, Carolina Motorsports Park, TalladegaGP and Virginia International Raceway – South Course. Each venue has been carefully selected for its unique characteristics and ability to deliver an exhilarating riding experience.
Some of the unique things about Precision Track Days include
** 2024 Schedule Calendar (Partial) **
2023
Dec 16th & 17th – JenningsGP
2024
Feb 24th & 25th – Carolina Motorsports Park
Mar 29th & 30th – Carolina Motorsports Park
Apr 6th. & 7th – TalladegaGP
Apr 30th & May 1st – VIR (South)
May 4th & May 5th – JenningsGP
May 18th & May 19th – TalladegaGP
July 29th & July 30th – VIR (South)
Aug 3rd & 4th – TalladegaGP
Aug 19 & 20 – PittRace ** Tentative
** A Commitment to Quality and Safety**
At Precision Track Days, our commitment to delivering a high-quality, safe, fun and enjoyable experience remains our top priority. Our 2024 events will continue to feature professional instruction from renowned riders in the sport, comprehensive safety protocols, and a supportive environment suitable for riders of all skill levels.
**Stay Tuned for More**
This partial release represents just a glimpse of what the 2024 season has to offer. Additional dates and locations will be announced in the coming months. We encourage everyone to stay connected with us through our website and social media channels for the latest updates and registration details.
**About Precision Track Days**
Founded in 2023, Precision Track Days strives to establish itself as a premier provider of motorcycle track day experiences. With a focus on quality, safety, and rider development, we strive to offer the best possible experience for motorsport enthusiasts across the country.
For more information, please call us at 770-313-6797 or buy your spots and packages on our website for the 2024 season.
Let’s REVUP with Precision!!!
Hickman Fastest in Opening Session at Macao
Conditions were almost perfect for the opening Free Practice session of the Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix – 55th Edition. With many riders returning having been away from the Guia Circuit for some time and without having to post lap times, the riders used the session to either familiarise themselves with the track or their bikes, and sometimes both.
Having won nine Macau Grand Prix races, Michael Rutter is the most successful rider in the history of the event. The Bathams-backed competitor, aboard the MGM FHO Racing BMW, said he enjoyed being back at a circuit he knows so well. “I really enjoyed that,” he beamed as he stepped off the machine. “I’m on a new Superbike so I’m still learning my way around it but so far it feels good. I’m confident we will have it where we want it by Saturday.”
The quickest man during the session was three-time Macau Grand Prix winner Peter Hickman. He’s on the MGM FHO Racing BMW and looked as if he’d never been away.
“It took a lap or two but then everything clicked,” admitted Hickman. “We’re still looking for the right setting here and there but we’re not far off. The plan is hopefully to post a good qualifying time in the first session and then try different things like tyre compounds etc in the second.”
Last year’s Macau Grand Prix winner, Erno Kostamo, looked to be in a determined mood throughout. He was the first rider to post a fast time and maintained that speed throughout. The Finn is confident he can carry the battle to the other front runners. “That was a good session,” said Kostamo. “I have a bit in reserve so to post times like that was encouraging. I’m the current Macao champion and I don’t intend to give up that title easily.”
Davey Todd (Burrows Engineering/RK Racing BMW) went second fastest in the session, with German David Datzer (MTP-Racing by ZERO UP Penz 13 BMW) fourth fastest ahead of Phillip Crowe who rounded out the top five.
More, from a press release issued by FHO Racing:
FHO Racing BMW Motorrad top the times in the opening Macau Grand Prix practice
The 55th Edition of the Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix got underway today at 07:45am local time, where Faye Ho’s team FHO Racing BMW Motorrad, sponsored by MGM, made its debut at the event and set the pace early, with Peter Hickman topping the practice times aboard the BMW M 1000 RR.
Returning to the streets of Macau after four years away, Hicky along with his teammate Michael Rutter – both multiple Macau GP winners – quickly got back into the swing of things, with Michael leading the way during the opening stages of the session.
Throughout the practice, Michael nine-time Macau GP winner, struggled slightly with the setting of his BMW, a machine he’s ridden just once before arriving at the event. Taking the chequered flag in seventh, the FHO Racing team is assessing the data collected to optimise the settings ahead of tomorrow’s qualifying session.
Meanwhile, teammate Hickman moved up the ranks from sixth, finishing as the session leader, recording his quickest time on the final lap (2:28.389), 0.7s ahead of second place.
Not only did Faye’s team make its Macau track debut today, Josh Brookes also experienced the Guia Circuit for the very first time. Finding his feet quickly at the 6.276km circuit, Josh impressed and finished the session 12th, eight seconds back from teammate Hicky.
The FHO Racing BMW Motorrad team will be back in action tomorrow (Friday 17 November) for two qualifying sessions, ahead of the 12-lap race on Saturday (18 November).
Josh Brookes – 12th:
“I think opening practice went well, but I found it difficult to enjoy it. I think the enjoyment will come when I can relax a little more, it’s very well known that these events are quite dangerous, but on the opening laps the recognition of the danger is heightened, so you know you can’t really relax and enjoy anything when you’re such an amateur. You need to learn every corner, every bump and understand it all clearly before you can ride in a relaxed way. I think when that comes then I can start to enjoy myself, but yeah to finish in 12th position, I was actually really happy with, so it was better than I expected really.”
Michael Rutter – 7th:
“Coming here, I’m used to jumping on a bike and getting a 1-2-3, so it’s a bit of a shock being seventh! It’s kind of what I expected but you hope it’s going to be a bit different; I’ve got a lot to learn still. Normally I arrive here on a bike I’ve ridden all season, but I’ve jumped on the BMW with just one outing on it on a roads circuit, it’s a bit lively at the moment. Hopefully the quicker I go the better it goes, that’s what normally happens, we need to cross that line where you need to push it harder and sometimes it gets easier so I’m hoping for that tomorrow!”
Peter Hickman – 1st:
“That was my first run in four years here, which was always going to be a little bit of a shock to the system, Macau is a shock to the system without that sort of gap! This place is really hard, it’s unlike any other track you’ll ever ride, it’s really unusual, it’s very challenging but it’s actually really good. The first session is always the worst though, so it was about how I expected it to feel. The BMW was pretty good to be honest, we made a few little changes in the session, I normally don’t make any changes in the first session just because it’s always the worst one, but I felt like the gearing was quite a way out, so we made one little change to it and we’re going to go a bit further with it as well after the session. Overall I’m quite happy with that first run, and ending P1 was a little bit of a bonus at the end!”
Faye Ho – Team Principal:
“This morning my dream came true as my team, FHO Racing BMW Motorrad made its debut at the Macau Grand Prix, to see the BMWs and the riders with the FHO logo was something really special here at my home event. I’m so pleased with the early results, especially with Josh who has never ridden here before, to finish 12th is impressive and I’m looking forward to seeing his progress over the next few days. Of course, Michael and Peter are very experienced here and for Pete to lead at the end of the opening day, just sets us up for the next few days as we go into qualifying tomorrow, ahead of Saturday’s race.”
ALGARVE INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT
Portimao was a rollercoaster of a weekend in every sense!
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CSBK expands to 24 episodes on TSN and RDS for 2024
Toronto, ON – The Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship will feature its largest broadcast schedule yet in 2024, returning with TSN and joining RDS for a record-breaking 24 new episodes next season.
The national series began its partnership with TSN (The Sports Network) in 1994, joining Canada’s premier sports channel and ESPN affiliate. As they prepare to celebrate their 30th anniversary in 2024, the two sides will now expand their relationship to include dedicated broadcasts for Quebec’s French-language channel, RDS.
RDS (Réseau Des Sports) was launched in 1989 as a sister network to TSN, and will now prepare their own independent broadcasts of all 12 planned Superbike races next season, with the search currently underway for Francophone announcers.
“The Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship has proven to be a world-class circuit year after year,” said Mathieu Jolivet, the senior producer for RDS. “TV viewers everywhere now have access to a top-notch product that showcases talent from all over the country, most notably from Quebec. We are thrilled to once again be able to showcase these riders and this series on RDS in 2024!”
The expansion comes at a pivotal time in Quebec’s racing history, as the province has continued to produce some of the series’ most notable stars, including pro champions Alex Dumas and Sebastien Tremblay, Superbike frontrunner Sam Guerin, amateur champion Mavrick Cyr, and teenage sensation Vincent Lalande, amongst others.
In 2023, TSN showcased a record 21 original episodes of national action, presenting all ten Superbike races, all nine Sport Bike races, and two amateur support class episodes.
The 2024 schedule is all but confirmed to feature 12 feature Superbike races (which will be shown on both TSN and RDS), with 12 additional Sport Bike broadcasts on TSN to bring the total to a record of 24 episodes.
A particular highlight of 2023’s broadcast success was the debut of announcer Marshall Ferguson – the popular CFL voice joining Colin Fraser in the Superbike booth – and both are expected to return in 2024 for all Superbike races on TSN.
More information on the expanded broadcast efforts of the Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship will be announced in the coming weeks.
#PECCOvsMARTIN: the duel for the crown arrives in the desert
Two contenders, 14 points, and a grid of 22 riders are about to take on Lusail – with a first match point potentially on the table
Wednesday, 15 November 2023
After 18 Grands Prix offering a maximum of 654 points, 74 are now left in play as we head into the final two Grands Prix of 2023 – and Championship leader Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) leads pretender to the throne Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) by just 14. This is it: two contenders, two weekends, two Sprints and two races remain, and it all starts at the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar. So choose your team, because the duel for the crown is now #PECCOvsMARTIN.
Bagnaia was confident ahead of track action in Sepang that it would be a good weekend for him, and he was proven very much correct. On Saturday morning he took pole for the first time since Barcelona, and in the afternoon he ceded only two points to Martin as neither won the Tissot Sprint. On Sunday, he went toe-to-toe with the number 89 in a fight to decide who was taking 16 points or 13, and this time he came out on top and in some style. Once the attack was repelled, the reigning Champion then simply rode off… something Martin has been a little more accustomed to of late. For #TeamPecco, that likely felt like quite a statement.
Martin himself said he was a little disappointed with that, but if his calling card over the latter half of the season has been pure pace, getting his elbows out as the instigator of that spectacular duel in Malaysia was a good reminder that he’s far from a one-tricky pony. As was his awesome win at Buriram. For #TeamMartin, too, there’s the simple fact that the number 89 was 66 points behind Pecco after the Sprint at Catalunya, and now he’s only 14 off with two GPs to go.
In short, it’s going to get interesting. Settling for a sensible 13 points in Sepang is a different ball game to being able to do so in Qatar or Valencia. Giving up two points on Saturday could quickly become a fast track to coming home runner up. There’s no margin for error for either rider, and what makes the tightrope even more tense is that this isn’t suddenly a race of two riders. 20 more will be joining them on track.
The first to mention this time around is Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team). The Beast + the question of team or manufacturer orders is a storyline you’ll likely remember from the 2022 Malaysian Grand Prix and, surprise! It came back this year. Bastianini was truly in beast mode at Sepang to take his first front row of the year, harry his teammate in the Sprint and then simply disappear on Sunday. We’ve seen it before, but what a time to get back on the top step. Given his maiden premier class win came at Qatar last season… watch this space, and how he plays it.
Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) is another who came out swinging, and one who has a little less concern for the title fight. He’s riding a Ducati but so are both the contenders, and neither are his teammate. He’ll be one to watch again. It’s one of the most interesting conundrums of what lies ahead: this year, the Borgo Panigale factory already won the riders’ crown. They just don’t yet know who they’ll be celebrating it with.
This year, it won’t be Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team), but he’s likely to be a frontrunner and wants to get back on the podium as a minimum. Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) too. Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) also had a tougher weekend at Sepang and will want more, and he’s already had a fair amount of limelight in the past week talking about his future, another watch this space. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) had a solid weekend in Malaysia but the meaning of that has been redefined since Phillip Island… in the Ducati ranks, there’s serious competition.
Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) also gave a few of those names just that on Sunday at Sepang, charging to another top five and dispatching Ducatis on the way. Teammate Franco Morbidelli, meanwhile, shot from P15 on the grid to seventh too, equalling his second best finish of the year from India. What can they do in Qatar?
Augusto Fernandez and GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 teammate Pol Espargaro also got back in the points for the first time since Japan, and Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was right in the mix at Sepang after a difficult Thai GP. Fortunes went the other way for Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) as he crashed out in Malaysia, but the South African was likely the most annoying person in the world for the two title contenders on Sunday at Buriram. Binder is nearly always a threat for those just ahead of him in the standings and very much does not ride for Ducati. He’s in the business of racing them. Hard.
Meanwhile, Aprilia will want a lot more from Qatar. For Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing), Sepang was simply one to forget. Teammate Maverick Viñales got some points from the weekend but considering his record at the track, he likely expected more. He’s also won at Qatar before, however, and it may be a game changer once the sun goes down and the heat cools off a little. Miguel Oliveira (CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP™ Team) and teammate Raul Fernandez also had a tough one on home turf for the team in Malaysia, and will want more from Lusail.
Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team), meanwhile, did take some points at Sepang but it was a tougher one for him, and Honda. At the moment, the headlines remain centered on who will partner Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team) next season. But there are points up for grabs once again in Qatar, and Marquez, Mir, Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) and Iker Lecuona, who again steps in at LCR Honda Castrol, all very much want some.
The fight for the crown is two riders, but the grid is 22-strong and each and every one of them has a very good reason why they’re fighting it out in the world’s most exciting sport. If Bastianini’s tough season plagued by injury before finding his feet again with an absolute masterclass at Sepang proves anything, it’s exactly that. So make sure to tune in for both a duel in the desert and a 22-rider showdown under the spectacular floodlights of Lusail International Circuit! All or nothing? It will be soon!
SHOWTIME AT LUSAIL
We’re underway at 20:00 local time on Saturday for the Sprint, before the GP race on Sunday fires up at the very same 20:00.
Tissot Sprint: Saturday 20:00 (GMT +3)
Grand Prix Race: Sunday 20:00 (GMT +3)
Pressure off: Acosta unleashed, Aldeguer on the march
After Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) wrapped up the 2023 title with a podium in Malaysia, the pressure is now off as Moto2™ rolls into Qatar. Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) comes into Round 19 knowing he’s been unbeatable in the last two outings, and was also fastest in Phillip Island before the rain, so can Acosta and co. stop the young Spaniard’s late-season charge from continuing at Lusail?
Acosta and Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) might be uncatchable in the overall standings, but the bronze medal pursuit is bubbling up nicely. 30.5 points split third place Jake Dixon (Inde GASGAS Aspar Team) to sixth place Somkiat Chantra (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), with in-form star Aldeguer rapidly staking his claim to be top three in the title chase. 21 is the gap between the #54 and Dixon with two to play.
A repeat of his Qatar podium in 2022 will do just nicely for Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) if he has anything to say about that P3 accolade, but it’s that first Moto2™ win the Spaniard craves. Can that come in Qatar or Valencia? Tune into the Moto2™ race at 18:15 local time (GMT+3) to find out!
Match point Masia: it’s crunch time in the Moto3™ title chase!
Five riders, 50 points, two to go. That’s the state of play in the fascinating 2023 Moto3™ title race as Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) heads to Qatar knowing there’s a chance he could be a World Champion on Sunday, with Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) still acting as the chief chaser after drama unfolded for the trio playing catch up in Malaysia.
Sasaki’s P2 in Sepang saw the Japanese star claw back four points on Masia to leave the gap between the top two sitting at 13. We’ll find out how crucial those will be in due course, but Sasaki – who was a runaway leader at the 2022 Qatar GP before a technical problem arose – knows that shrinking that gap again in Qatar is all that matters. If the margin between the duo rises to 25 points or more in Masia’s favour, then the latter will be Champion.
That’s if David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team), Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) and Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) aren’t within 25 points of the Honda rider come Sunday afternoon either. The former pairing crashed out in Malaysia to see their title dreams take a huge dent, while Öncü thought he was out of it altogether after he was taken out by teammate Jose Antonio Rueda. P12 meant the Turk was mathematically ruled out, but a post-race penalty for David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) promoted Öncü to P11 – a slender lifeline as he’s now 50 off the top.
The talk will be all about the Championship in Qatar, but the likes of our newest Grand Prix winner Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) will be hoping to steal the headlines once more. The Dutchman should be a key ally to teammate Sasaki in the final two races, will the tactics change now the victory has been collected?
A huge weekend lies ahead in the lightweight class, with Sunday’s showdown beginning at 17:00 local time (GMT+3). Tune in!
Jaume Masia was fastest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday at Lusail International Circuit, in Doha, Qatar. Riding his Leopard Racing Honda, the Championship point leader did a 2:06.794 to lead the field of 28 riders.
Moto3 FP2
Jorge Martin was quickest during MotoGP World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday at Lusail International Circuit, in Doha, Qatar. Riding his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati, the Spaniard covered the recently repaved 3.4-mile (5.4 km) course in 1:56.393 to lead the field of 22 riders.
Martin’s teammate Johann Zarco was second-best with a time of 1:56.565.
Defending World Champion and current point leader Francesco Bagnaia made it a Ducati 1-2-3 with a 1:56.622 on his Lenovo Team Ducati.
MotoGP FP1
Fermin Aldeguer topped Moto2 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday at Lusail International Circuit, in Doha, Qatar. The Beta Tools SpeedUp rider navigated the recently repaved 3.4-mile (5.4 km) course in 2:01.097 to top the field of 30 racers.
American Joe Roberts, the Moto2 All-Time Lap Record holder at Lusail, was 14th with a 2:03.418 on his Italtrans Racing Kalex.
Roberts’ countryman Sean Dylan Kelly (SDK) finished the session 21st with a lap of 2:04.269 on his Forward Team machine.
Moto2 FP1
Deniz Oncu was quickest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday at Lusail International Circuit, in Doha, Qatar. Riding his Red Bull KTM Ajo racebike, the Turkish racer lapped the recently repaved 3.4-mile (5.4 km) track in 2:09.404 to lead the field of 28 competitors.
Moto3 FP1
#PECCOvsMARTIN: “I’ll take the risk and gamble”
The two contenders join the pre-event Press Conference on Thursday before heading for an awesome photo call in Doha
Thursday, 16 November 2023
It all comes down to this: two contenders split by 14 points, a maximum of 74 still up for grabs, and two more weekends of competition for this season of the world’s most exciting sport. On Thursday at the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar, the pre-event Press Conference therefore had a predictable guest list in the best way, welcoming title contenders Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) ahead of a first potential match point for Pecco.
Both then headed to the city for a spectacular photo opportunity against the awesome backdrop of the city skyline. Here are some quotes and photos from touchdown in Doha!
On seeing the MotoGP™ Stories episode:
FRANCESCO BAGNAIA: “First of all, it’s strange to say that that was just seven years ago. It seems like it was a lot longer. But yeah, when Jorge arrived in the Mahindra team I’d already followed him in the Rookies Cup the year before and he was doing incredible things, so I was expecting to have a very strong teammate. The first test in the wet, he was already faster than me. So yeah, he’s been very, very competitive from the start. He needed time to adapt to everything because some riders arrive and assume that they’re competitive and other riders need more time. The fact that right now we are fighting for the title is great and I think Jorge, Aspar and Gino can be proud.”
How do you feel about your chances of getting the job done this weekend?
“I’m not considering this weekend as a match point, honestly I have to gain 23 points I think, and that’s too much in a single weekend. Jorge is doing a really great job and it will be more important to think session by session to work like we did last weekend in Sepang and try to be competitive. We know perfectly well that the tarmac has been resurfaced and it could be a great question for the tyres. I think it will be demanding on the tyres because it’s new. Let’s see. It’s a track that I like. We’ve always been competitive here, apart from last year when it was at the wrong part of the season. But the lap record is still mine and I think our bike suits very well to this circuit.”
The goal is to beat Martin this weekend?
“Yeah, maybe that would be better because 14 points to lead the championship is nothing, 37 points or weekend is a lot, so you can gain or lose a lot of points in one weekend. It will be important to stay calm and work well and try to do the maximum because last weekend he gained 3 points on Saturday and then lost four on Sunday, so it’s very balanced and I think it will be a head-to-head.”
What about Bastianini?
“I don’t know. I was quite clear with the team and I’ll always say that if he has the possibility to win and he’s in a situation that he needs to push. So let’s see, but for sure it’ll be OK to work together during the sessions, maybe. I always prefer to be alone, but maybe it’s time to work together.”
Reaction to the crash in 2022…
“We were there behind, pushing for seven points and I was on the limit. I was fighting with him and then nothing… I lost the front. It was worse for him because he became injured on the leathers, so it was quite scary for him. That wasn’t the ideal start to the season. We were in quite a bit of trouble at that point.”
On the new track surface:
“I think it will be better for everyone. New asphalt means more grip. We always arrive here in March when it’s cold at the beginning, so for me it will be better, but we need to see for the tyres because we will race in different conditions compared to the past years and it will be a lot hotter. It’ll be a big question for the tyres, for sure.”
Are you still happy to be sharing data when you’re fighting for the World Championship?
“It’s always been like this. He can see my data when I’m faster and I can see his data when he’s faster. So for me it’s the same. A good thing is that we ride in two different ways, so it’s also difficult to compare sometimes.”
Do you expect it to be a close battle here?
“Let’s see. I don’t know because the new asphalt can change a lot and in the past also last year, you need to control the tyres a lot. We were seeing fastest laps in the last laps last year so it will be tricky for sure an interesting. It would be nice to have a battle like in the past. I would be happy to be in the side of Andrea Dovizioso!”
On seeing the MotoGP™ Stories episode:
JORGE MARTIN: “I watched it this week, I really enjoyed it. I had a lot fun watching it, I was laughing by myself in my hotel room. It helped me disconnect a little. When I saw the video, I felt a lot of respect and remembered a lot of good moment with Pecco. For sure, at the time I never expected that we would be here sitting together and fighting for a MotoGP World Championship. It’s an honour to be here with Pecco, but now let’s go and win it.”
Is it now essential to cut the gap?
“Yeah for sure, I don’t know the maths, I just know I need to recover points. This is my target. I’m already second in the Championship even if I don’t ride in the next two races so I just need to attack and recover points.”
Out in the desert with Dakar Rally winner Nasser Al-Attiyah. Good way to relax?
“Yesterday was an amazing day. Thanks to Nasser, it was an amazing experience. I felt in Malaysia I was riding a little too blocked on Sunday. I was feeling like I was crashing at every corner and this didn’t help to go fast and smooth. Now it’s like I told you before, I’m already in second, I just can change to first so I will take the risks and maybe take some gambles to do it.”
Bastianini didn’t take too much risk against Pecco in the Sprint at Sepang, for example… does he have more friends out there?
“I don’t care about friends; I just care about myself. I feel if I can do my 100%, I can beat all of them so I am focused on the weekend and myself and if someone helps him or not, I can’t control it, so I don’t really care.”
On the new surface in Qatar:
“I didn’t have a look yet but as Pecco said there will be more grip with new asphalt. Tyres will be the key. We have a lot info from the past so maybe it will be useless. Maybe we have to start from zero and let’s try to be clever and fast to understand the situation.”
Ducati sharing data policy continues, or are there more secrets?
“For me it is the same, we are used to this. He knows my set up exactly because I almost never change! I think it’s like this. Battling for a Championship isn’t easy when you know your rival is looking at your data, but I’m also looking at his.”
Past battles in Qatar have been spectacular, do you expect a close battle this weekend?
“It will be super close for me. It’s difficult to understand now but it will be a close battle between all the fast riders. It’s a good chance to recover points but also a good chance to lose a lot of points. We need to be clever and fast and try to win it.”
Fans over the world are picking Team Pecco or Team Martin. Who would be dream celebrity fan?
“Difficult to say, Valentino was my idol so maybe him but that might be difficult! Let’s say Jason Statham!”
**Precision Track Days Announces Partial 2024 Schedule**
Acworth, GA [Nov 15,2024] – Precision Track Days, the newest track day provider in the southeast, is excited to unveil a portion of its much-anticipated 2024 track day schedule. This partial release showcases a diverse range of tracks, offering both new challenges and favorite classics to our valued community of track day enthusiasts.
The 2024 season will see the introduction of several new tracks to the Precision lineup, broadening our geographic reach and providing fresh experiences for our participants. These include renowned circuits such as JenningsGP, Carolina Motorsports Park, TalladegaGP and Virginia International Raceway – South Course. Each venue has been carefully selected for its unique characteristics and ability to deliver an exhilarating riding experience.
Some of the unique things about Precision Track Days include
** 2024 Schedule Calendar (Partial) **
2023
Dec 16th & 17th – JenningsGP
2024
Feb 24th & 25th – Carolina Motorsports Park
Mar 29th & 30th – Carolina Motorsports Park
Apr 6th. & 7th – TalladegaGP
Apr 30th & May 1st – VIR (South)
May 4th & May 5th – JenningsGP
May 18th & May 19th – TalladegaGP
July 29th & July 30th – VIR (South)
Aug 3rd & 4th – TalladegaGP
Aug 19 & 20 – PittRace ** Tentative
** A Commitment to Quality and Safety**
At Precision Track Days, our commitment to delivering a high-quality, safe, fun and enjoyable experience remains our top priority. Our 2024 events will continue to feature professional instruction from renowned riders in the sport, comprehensive safety protocols, and a supportive environment suitable for riders of all skill levels.
**Stay Tuned for More**
This partial release represents just a glimpse of what the 2024 season has to offer. Additional dates and locations will be announced in the coming months. We encourage everyone to stay connected with us through our website and social media channels for the latest updates and registration details.
**About Precision Track Days**
Founded in 2023, Precision Track Days strives to establish itself as a premier provider of motorcycle track day experiences. With a focus on quality, safety, and rider development, we strive to offer the best possible experience for motorsport enthusiasts across the country.
For more information, please call us at 770-313-6797 or buy your spots and packages on our website for the 2024 season.
Let’s REVUP with Precision!!!
Hickman Fastest in Opening Session at Macao
Conditions were almost perfect for the opening Free Practice session of the Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix – 55th Edition. With many riders returning having been away from the Guia Circuit for some time and without having to post lap times, the riders used the session to either familiarise themselves with the track or their bikes, and sometimes both.
Having won nine Macau Grand Prix races, Michael Rutter is the most successful rider in the history of the event. The Bathams-backed competitor, aboard the MGM FHO Racing BMW, said he enjoyed being back at a circuit he knows so well. “I really enjoyed that,” he beamed as he stepped off the machine. “I’m on a new Superbike so I’m still learning my way around it but so far it feels good. I’m confident we will have it where we want it by Saturday.”
The quickest man during the session was three-time Macau Grand Prix winner Peter Hickman. He’s on the MGM FHO Racing BMW and looked as if he’d never been away.
“It took a lap or two but then everything clicked,” admitted Hickman. “We’re still looking for the right setting here and there but we’re not far off. The plan is hopefully to post a good qualifying time in the first session and then try different things like tyre compounds etc in the second.”
Last year’s Macau Grand Prix winner, Erno Kostamo, looked to be in a determined mood throughout. He was the first rider to post a fast time and maintained that speed throughout. The Finn is confident he can carry the battle to the other front runners. “That was a good session,” said Kostamo. “I have a bit in reserve so to post times like that was encouraging. I’m the current Macao champion and I don’t intend to give up that title easily.”
Davey Todd (Burrows Engineering/RK Racing BMW) went second fastest in the session, with German David Datzer (MTP-Racing by ZERO UP Penz 13 BMW) fourth fastest ahead of Phillip Crowe who rounded out the top five.
More, from a press release issued by FHO Racing:
FHO Racing BMW Motorrad top the times in the opening Macau Grand Prix practice
The 55th Edition of the Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix got underway today at 07:45am local time, where Faye Ho’s team FHO Racing BMW Motorrad, sponsored by MGM, made its debut at the event and set the pace early, with Peter Hickman topping the practice times aboard the BMW M 1000 RR.
Returning to the streets of Macau after four years away, Hicky along with his teammate Michael Rutter – both multiple Macau GP winners – quickly got back into the swing of things, with Michael leading the way during the opening stages of the session.
Throughout the practice, Michael nine-time Macau GP winner, struggled slightly with the setting of his BMW, a machine he’s ridden just once before arriving at the event. Taking the chequered flag in seventh, the FHO Racing team is assessing the data collected to optimise the settings ahead of tomorrow’s qualifying session.
Meanwhile, teammate Hickman moved up the ranks from sixth, finishing as the session leader, recording his quickest time on the final lap (2:28.389), 0.7s ahead of second place.
Not only did Faye’s team make its Macau track debut today, Josh Brookes also experienced the Guia Circuit for the very first time. Finding his feet quickly at the 6.276km circuit, Josh impressed and finished the session 12th, eight seconds back from teammate Hicky.
The FHO Racing BMW Motorrad team will be back in action tomorrow (Friday 17 November) for two qualifying sessions, ahead of the 12-lap race on Saturday (18 November).
Josh Brookes – 12th:
“I think opening practice went well, but I found it difficult to enjoy it. I think the enjoyment will come when I can relax a little more, it’s very well known that these events are quite dangerous, but on the opening laps the recognition of the danger is heightened, so you know you can’t really relax and enjoy anything when you’re such an amateur. You need to learn every corner, every bump and understand it all clearly before you can ride in a relaxed way. I think when that comes then I can start to enjoy myself, but yeah to finish in 12th position, I was actually really happy with, so it was better than I expected really.”
Michael Rutter – 7th:
“Coming here, I’m used to jumping on a bike and getting a 1-2-3, so it’s a bit of a shock being seventh! It’s kind of what I expected but you hope it’s going to be a bit different; I’ve got a lot to learn still. Normally I arrive here on a bike I’ve ridden all season, but I’ve jumped on the BMW with just one outing on it on a roads circuit, it’s a bit lively at the moment. Hopefully the quicker I go the better it goes, that’s what normally happens, we need to cross that line where you need to push it harder and sometimes it gets easier so I’m hoping for that tomorrow!”
Peter Hickman – 1st:
“That was my first run in four years here, which was always going to be a little bit of a shock to the system, Macau is a shock to the system without that sort of gap! This place is really hard, it’s unlike any other track you’ll ever ride, it’s really unusual, it’s very challenging but it’s actually really good. The first session is always the worst though, so it was about how I expected it to feel. The BMW was pretty good to be honest, we made a few little changes in the session, I normally don’t make any changes in the first session just because it’s always the worst one, but I felt like the gearing was quite a way out, so we made one little change to it and we’re going to go a bit further with it as well after the session. Overall I’m quite happy with that first run, and ending P1 was a little bit of a bonus at the end!”
Faye Ho – Team Principal:
“This morning my dream came true as my team, FHO Racing BMW Motorrad made its debut at the Macau Grand Prix, to see the BMWs and the riders with the FHO logo was something really special here at my home event. I’m so pleased with the early results, especially with Josh who has never ridden here before, to finish 12th is impressive and I’m looking forward to seeing his progress over the next few days. Of course, Michael and Peter are very experienced here and for Pete to lead at the end of the opening day, just sets us up for the next few days as we go into qualifying tomorrow, ahead of Saturday’s race.”
ALGARVE INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT
Portimao was a rollercoaster of a weekend in every sense!
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CSBK expands to 24 episodes on TSN and RDS for 2024
Toronto, ON – The Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship will feature its largest broadcast schedule yet in 2024, returning with TSN and joining RDS for a record-breaking 24 new episodes next season.
The national series began its partnership with TSN (The Sports Network) in 1994, joining Canada’s premier sports channel and ESPN affiliate. As they prepare to celebrate their 30th anniversary in 2024, the two sides will now expand their relationship to include dedicated broadcasts for Quebec’s French-language channel, RDS.
RDS (Réseau Des Sports) was launched in 1989 as a sister network to TSN, and will now prepare their own independent broadcasts of all 12 planned Superbike races next season, with the search currently underway for Francophone announcers.
“The Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship has proven to be a world-class circuit year after year,” said Mathieu Jolivet, the senior producer for RDS. “TV viewers everywhere now have access to a top-notch product that showcases talent from all over the country, most notably from Quebec. We are thrilled to once again be able to showcase these riders and this series on RDS in 2024!”
The expansion comes at a pivotal time in Quebec’s racing history, as the province has continued to produce some of the series’ most notable stars, including pro champions Alex Dumas and Sebastien Tremblay, Superbike frontrunner Sam Guerin, amateur champion Mavrick Cyr, and teenage sensation Vincent Lalande, amongst others.
In 2023, TSN showcased a record 21 original episodes of national action, presenting all ten Superbike races, all nine Sport Bike races, and two amateur support class episodes.
The 2024 schedule is all but confirmed to feature 12 feature Superbike races (which will be shown on both TSN and RDS), with 12 additional Sport Bike broadcasts on TSN to bring the total to a record of 24 episodes.
A particular highlight of 2023’s broadcast success was the debut of announcer Marshall Ferguson – the popular CFL voice joining Colin Fraser in the Superbike booth – and both are expected to return in 2024 for all Superbike races on TSN.
More information on the expanded broadcast efforts of the Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship will be announced in the coming weeks.
#PECCOvsMARTIN: the duel for the crown arrives in the desert
Two contenders, 14 points, and a grid of 22 riders are about to take on Lusail – with a first match point potentially on the table
Wednesday, 15 November 2023
After 18 Grands Prix offering a maximum of 654 points, 74 are now left in play as we head into the final two Grands Prix of 2023 – and Championship leader Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) leads pretender to the throne Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) by just 14. This is it: two contenders, two weekends, two Sprints and two races remain, and it all starts at the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar. So choose your team, because the duel for the crown is now #PECCOvsMARTIN.
Bagnaia was confident ahead of track action in Sepang that it would be a good weekend for him, and he was proven very much correct. On Saturday morning he took pole for the first time since Barcelona, and in the afternoon he ceded only two points to Martin as neither won the Tissot Sprint. On Sunday, he went toe-to-toe with the number 89 in a fight to decide who was taking 16 points or 13, and this time he came out on top and in some style. Once the attack was repelled, the reigning Champion then simply rode off… something Martin has been a little more accustomed to of late. For #TeamPecco, that likely felt like quite a statement.
Martin himself said he was a little disappointed with that, but if his calling card over the latter half of the season has been pure pace, getting his elbows out as the instigator of that spectacular duel in Malaysia was a good reminder that he’s far from a one-tricky pony. As was his awesome win at Buriram. For #TeamMartin, too, there’s the simple fact that the number 89 was 66 points behind Pecco after the Sprint at Catalunya, and now he’s only 14 off with two GPs to go.
In short, it’s going to get interesting. Settling for a sensible 13 points in Sepang is a different ball game to being able to do so in Qatar or Valencia. Giving up two points on Saturday could quickly become a fast track to coming home runner up. There’s no margin for error for either rider, and what makes the tightrope even more tense is that this isn’t suddenly a race of two riders. 20 more will be joining them on track.
The first to mention this time around is Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team). The Beast + the question of team or manufacturer orders is a storyline you’ll likely remember from the 2022 Malaysian Grand Prix and, surprise! It came back this year. Bastianini was truly in beast mode at Sepang to take his first front row of the year, harry his teammate in the Sprint and then simply disappear on Sunday. We’ve seen it before, but what a time to get back on the top step. Given his maiden premier class win came at Qatar last season… watch this space, and how he plays it.
Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) is another who came out swinging, and one who has a little less concern for the title fight. He’s riding a Ducati but so are both the contenders, and neither are his teammate. He’ll be one to watch again. It’s one of the most interesting conundrums of what lies ahead: this year, the Borgo Panigale factory already won the riders’ crown. They just don’t yet know who they’ll be celebrating it with.
This year, it won’t be Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team), but he’s likely to be a frontrunner and wants to get back on the podium as a minimum. Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) too. Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) also had a tougher weekend at Sepang and will want more, and he’s already had a fair amount of limelight in the past week talking about his future, another watch this space. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) had a solid weekend in Malaysia but the meaning of that has been redefined since Phillip Island… in the Ducati ranks, there’s serious competition.
Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) also gave a few of those names just that on Sunday at Sepang, charging to another top five and dispatching Ducatis on the way. Teammate Franco Morbidelli, meanwhile, shot from P15 on the grid to seventh too, equalling his second best finish of the year from India. What can they do in Qatar?
Augusto Fernandez and GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3 teammate Pol Espargaro also got back in the points for the first time since Japan, and Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was right in the mix at Sepang after a difficult Thai GP. Fortunes went the other way for Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) as he crashed out in Malaysia, but the South African was likely the most annoying person in the world for the two title contenders on Sunday at Buriram. Binder is nearly always a threat for those just ahead of him in the standings and very much does not ride for Ducati. He’s in the business of racing them. Hard.
Meanwhile, Aprilia will want a lot more from Qatar. For Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing), Sepang was simply one to forget. Teammate Maverick Viñales got some points from the weekend but considering his record at the track, he likely expected more. He’s also won at Qatar before, however, and it may be a game changer once the sun goes down and the heat cools off a little. Miguel Oliveira (CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP™ Team) and teammate Raul Fernandez also had a tough one on home turf for the team in Malaysia, and will want more from Lusail.
Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team), meanwhile, did take some points at Sepang but it was a tougher one for him, and Honda. At the moment, the headlines remain centered on who will partner Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team) next season. But there are points up for grabs once again in Qatar, and Marquez, Mir, Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) and Iker Lecuona, who again steps in at LCR Honda Castrol, all very much want some.
The fight for the crown is two riders, but the grid is 22-strong and each and every one of them has a very good reason why they’re fighting it out in the world’s most exciting sport. If Bastianini’s tough season plagued by injury before finding his feet again with an absolute masterclass at Sepang proves anything, it’s exactly that. So make sure to tune in for both a duel in the desert and a 22-rider showdown under the spectacular floodlights of Lusail International Circuit! All or nothing? It will be soon!
SHOWTIME AT LUSAIL
We’re underway at 20:00 local time on Saturday for the Sprint, before the GP race on Sunday fires up at the very same 20:00.
Tissot Sprint: Saturday 20:00 (GMT +3)
Grand Prix Race: Sunday 20:00 (GMT +3)
Pressure off: Acosta unleashed, Aldeguer on the march
After Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) wrapped up the 2023 title with a podium in Malaysia, the pressure is now off as Moto2™ rolls into Qatar. Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) comes into Round 19 knowing he’s been unbeatable in the last two outings, and was also fastest in Phillip Island before the rain, so can Acosta and co. stop the young Spaniard’s late-season charge from continuing at Lusail?
Acosta and Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) might be uncatchable in the overall standings, but the bronze medal pursuit is bubbling up nicely. 30.5 points split third place Jake Dixon (Inde GASGAS Aspar Team) to sixth place Somkiat Chantra (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), with in-form star Aldeguer rapidly staking his claim to be top three in the title chase. 21 is the gap between the #54 and Dixon with two to play.
A repeat of his Qatar podium in 2022 will do just nicely for Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) if he has anything to say about that P3 accolade, but it’s that first Moto2™ win the Spaniard craves. Can that come in Qatar or Valencia? Tune into the Moto2™ race at 18:15 local time (GMT+3) to find out!
Match point Masia: it’s crunch time in the Moto3™ title chase!
Five riders, 50 points, two to go. That’s the state of play in the fascinating 2023 Moto3™ title race as Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) heads to Qatar knowing there’s a chance he could be a World Champion on Sunday, with Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) still acting as the chief chaser after drama unfolded for the trio playing catch up in Malaysia.
Sasaki’s P2 in Sepang saw the Japanese star claw back four points on Masia to leave the gap between the top two sitting at 13. We’ll find out how crucial those will be in due course, but Sasaki – who was a runaway leader at the 2022 Qatar GP before a technical problem arose – knows that shrinking that gap again in Qatar is all that matters. If the margin between the duo rises to 25 points or more in Masia’s favour, then the latter will be Champion.
That’s if David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team), Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) and Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) aren’t within 25 points of the Honda rider come Sunday afternoon either. The former pairing crashed out in Malaysia to see their title dreams take a huge dent, while Öncü thought he was out of it altogether after he was taken out by teammate Jose Antonio Rueda. P12 meant the Turk was mathematically ruled out, but a post-race penalty for David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) promoted Öncü to P11 – a slender lifeline as he’s now 50 off the top.
The talk will be all about the Championship in Qatar, but the likes of our newest Grand Prix winner Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) will be hoping to steal the headlines once more. The Dutchman should be a key ally to teammate Sasaki in the final two races, will the tactics change now the victory has been collected?
A huge weekend lies ahead in the lightweight class, with Sunday’s showdown beginning at 17:00 local time (GMT+3). Tune in!
