The Indonesian Grand Prix marked a potential turning point in the battle for the 2024 MotoGP title, with a dominant performance from Jorge Martin which could well indicate that all the momentum is now on his side against Francesco Bagnaia. The race saw incidents for some of the main contenders, notably Marc Marquez and Enea Bastianini, who were forced to retire, leaving a direct duel between Martin and Bagnaia for the championship.
Jorge Martinleader of the championship before this Grand Prix, showed great resilience after a
fall in Sprint race which could have cost him dearly. In the main race, he led from start to finish, consolidating his lead and showing significant mastery on the Mandalika track. His victory allows him to maintain a lead of 21 points on Bagnaiaa margin which, although reduced, is seriously to be considered with only five events remaining at the end of the season.
Martin admitted to being haunted by “ghosts” after his fall in Sprintespecially in the corners where he had problems the previous year. However, he knew how to remain cautious while attacking at the right time, as he explained afterwards
the race : “I had ghosts in my head in some corners, but I managed to stay focused and push when I had to “. His ability to handle pressure and maintain a steady pace made the difference, particularly when faced with the threat of Pedro Acostawhich had come dangerously close at one point.
Francesco Bagnaiafor his part, had more difficulty entering the race. From the start, it was slowed down by a poor launch of its Ducatia recurring problem in recent races. Although his pace improved once his tires were up to temperature, he lost precious seconds which compromised his chances of fighting for victory. Bagnaia himself admitted that his position on the grid and his start played a crucial role in his performance: “ when you start behind, it’s difficult to compensate for the lack of gripwhereas if you are in front, you can brake harder and manage the situation better ».
Francesco Bagnaia: «
it was important for Jorge Martin to win in Indonesia, and for me it was important to score points
»
Despite a podium, Bagnaia knows he needs to resolve his teething issues quickly if he wants to stay in title contention. The last five races will be crucial, and every detail, including the management of the first laps, could make the difference.
Enea Bastianini et Marc
Marquezwho were still in the running for the title before this Grand Prix, saw their hopes disappear.
Bastianiniafter a good start to the race, seemed capable of competing with Martinbut a fall seven laps from the finish put an end to his ambitions. He admitted after the race that it was one of his last chances to get back into the title race.
Marc Marquezfor his part, was forced to retire due to engine failure, a frustrating conclusion after a strong comeback during the Sprint race where he managed to secure a third place. His title dream now seems out of reach.
With the abandonment of Bastianini et
Marquezthe race for the 2024 MotoGP title definitely now seems to come down to a duel between Jorge
Martin et
Francesco Bagnaia. And Martin
seems to have taken a psychological and technical advantage, Bagnaia has not yet said its last word. He’s staying five racesand everything can still change in this intense struggle between the two men. “It was important for Jorge Martín to win, and for me it was important to score points” mentioned
Francesco Bagnaia when leaving Indonesia.
The dynamism seems to be on the side of Martinmore Bagnaiadefending champion, is known for his ability to rebound. The next events, starting with Motegi, this weekend, will be decisive to know if
Martin can maintain its momentum or if
Bagnaia will find the answers to its problems to reverse the trend.
MotoGP race of the Indonesian GP: classification
MotoGP general classification
