The reigning double world champion approaches this Barcelona Solidarity Grand Prix 24 points behind his Spanish rival. For Francesco Bagnaia, the situation is simple, he must not lose two points or more this afternoon on Jorge Martín if he wishes to maintain his title chances on Sunday. And to maximize these, he must try to put as many motorcycles between him and Martín to reduce the gap as much as possible. The first battle, that of qualifying, turned to his advantage, since Bagnaia will start in pole position, while Martín will be fourth.
Two motorcycles therefore managed to squeeze in, with Aleix Espargaró's Aprilia second in his Montmeló garden, and Marc Márquez in third place on a Ducati from the Gresini team. Márquez will team up with Bagnaia next year in the official team, and the Italian did not hesitate to help his future garage neighbor by giving him a wheel in qualifying. A strategy which counterbalances that of Espargaró, still very lively in Barcelona, and who makes no secret of it, he wants to help his great friend Jorge Martín to win the title! It is therefore the strategy of the rider of the No. 1 Ducati which has worked best so far in qualifying…
“This weekend I'm trying to help other drivers because I have to put drivers between Jorge and me! » said Bagnaia in the Parc Fermé. “That was the plan, and it worked. He starts fourth, he is very close, but I am happy all the same because we are fast, whether in race pace or on a lap as we prove here. It is important to stay very focused, starting this afternoon. »
The sprint race, which will take place this Saturday from 3 p.m., could prove decisive for the title. More than a duel between two drivers, Bagnaia will have to watch Aleix Espargaró, who will not hesitate to play a role in the fight for the title if he can do it… All in total fair play is it allowed I hope, race director Mike Webb having probably given the usual instructions, namely not to take too many risks against the title contenders, to ensure that we have the best and fairest battle possible.
READ ALSO > Barcelona – Qualifications: Bagnaia takes a significant advantage
