Only mathematics has not yet awarded Jorge Martin the 2024 MotoGP title, even if the 24 points lead over Francesco Bagnaia who precedes him in Barcelona is a considerable asset. So much so that from Saturday, by winning the Sprint, the Spaniard could celebrate. The double world champion knows that he has “a possibility” of remaining so and that “it will be difficult”, but he intends to try “until the end” to reverse the forecast. Whatever happens, both Ducati riders will share the credit for keeping the championship alive until the last of the 20 events on the calendar, and “it's an honor for me to have once again arrived at the last race to play for the world title” underlined the Italian.
“Winning 24 points in one weekend is difficultbut I will try to win both races.” This is the only strategy available to Bagnaia, on a “good for us” track. We will have to be perfect – Pecco said in a press conference – Jorge will be able to wait, he will only need a seventh place in both races. Even if he were to slow down a little, it's difficult that he could finish outside the podium, but we'll see. Pressure can play a role.” Does he think others can influence the final challenge? “I know he will be able to get help from other drivers like Espargaro, just as I will be able to get help from the Academy drivers.”
Premise that “it's a privilege to be here again to challenge Bagnaia for the world title”, “my goal is to do my best from Friday to Sunday, then winning or not winning will be a consequence – reflected Martin – Finally , I can run without looking at anyone else, but only myself. If I had to win on Saturday, that would be great, but if the title came on Sunday, I would still be happy.” Disappointed to have to leave Ducati? “I don't think they didn't take me into the official team because they think I'm not good enough. I think there must have been other interests. But we will remain on good terms. You never know what can happen in the next few years.”
Encore Bagnaia: “I feel freer right now because I know I have to go head on and do what I do best, which is go out on the track, have fun and try to win.” Two years ago, when the first world title came, “honestly, I was very scared and I finished in eighth place. Last year I tried to stay calm, but in the race I was more nervous. Then Jorge fell and from there it was easier. But you never know, you can’t escape the pressure, you have to live with it in the best possible way.”
To the opponent he advised to “enjoy the weekend”, because “he had a fantastic season. We will both give our best, but this time my maximum will not be enough and we will have to see what he does.” After the May race, the championship returned to Montmeló due to the violent rains that devastated the Valencia region. Proceeds from the event, renamed for the occasion Solidarity GP of Barcelona, will go to the victims of the flood. “What happened is terrible and we really hope that we can contribute substantially to helping the affected population,” was Bagnaia’s hope.
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