Enea Bastianini will return to the pleasure of driving on the Motegi circuit this weekend, having not participated in the Japanese Grand Prix since the 2021 season, missing the event twice due to injuries.
A factor which will certainly not work in his favor at the next meeting, although the latter assures to approach the sixteenth round of the MotoGP world championship with confidence.
“It’s been a long time since I raced in Japan. But I always liked the Motegi track, confides the Ducati rider on the sidelines of the event. Recently we have been fast on almost all circuits. »
Although he lost big in Mandalika, after a fall, while he was in the process of getting back to the lead of the race, defended by Jorge Martin, the Italian retains his hopes of a title. In good shape during the last meetings, the No. 23 will draw on his resources as much as necessary to try to undermine Bagnaia and Martin. At least as long as that is still possible.
“I’m happy to get back on track straight away. I left last Sunday behind me for good, he continues. The gap in the championship is widening, but it is still not mathematically impossible. It will be important to stay focused during these final races. I will give my best and always keep pushing hard. »
Marquez, a more credible target for Bastianini
While he is 75 points behind the championship leader, Bastianini should gain an average of fifteen points from Jorge Martin, and 11 from Bagnaia, during the last five events to be crowned champion.
Although 37 points are on the line every weekend, there is little chance of that happening. Especially since the two main protagonists display an impressive level of consistency despite their recent mistakes.
Bastianini must, however, maintain this ambition to succeed in defending third place in the championship. Marc Marquez is only three points behind him, riding his GP23.
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