Jaume Masia was crowned the 2023 Moto3 World Champion but how did the season develop?

The 2023 season was Jaume Masia’s seventh year in the Moto3 World Championship, and his second with Leopard Racing. Masia took four race wins in the highly competitive Moto3 class, with consistency being key. He claimed 10 podiums throughout the year and wrapped up the title with one round to go.

The Championship began in Portugal, unlike previous years due to the renovations taking place in Qatar. After the first round, Masia was down in fifth position in the standings, ahead of Ayumu Sasaki. Daniel Holgado looked to have the early season momentum in his second season in the class.

It wasn’t until the third round of the season that Masia took his first podium of the year at COTA. Leaving America, Holgado was tied in the standings, with Masia making his way into fourth in the standings. He was ahead of his teammate at the time, Tatsuki Suzuki who was a further four points behind.

Masia continued with his form, claiming three podiums in a row but still no race wins to his name. One race remained before the summer break at the legendary TT Circuit Assen, where he took his first win of the year. He finished just 0.081 ahead of later Championship rival, Ayumu Sasaki.

This win promoted Masia to second in the Championship, just 16 points behind Daniel Holgado. The gap was closed on Holgado who suffered from his first no points of the season, finishing in 25^th.

It was a terrible start to the second half of the season, beginning at Silverstone after the summer break. Masia was out of the points at Silverstone after crashing out of an early lead. In Austria, bad luck continued with a mechanical issue, forcing the Spaniard to suffer from his first DNF.

Back on top after Barcelona

His momentum would pick up in Barcelona, claiming four podiums and two race wins in a row and putting him back into contention. Leaving Japan Masia led the title charge, leading Sasaki by six points. Daniel Holgado was in third but would suffer a further three poor results, ending his Championship hopes.

It turned out to be a two-horse race at the front with all eyes on the battle between Masia and Sasaki. It was the battle between two manufacturers Honda and Husqvarna (KTM) which took multiple shifts throughout the year.

Ayumu Sasaki suffered from an unlucky DNF in Thailand, one week after a crash on the sighting lap in Indonesia. Sasaki hit the back of David Munoz’s bike in Thailand after the Spaniard suffered from a mechanical issue. This put Sasaki on the back foot with three rounds remaining.

At Sepang for round 18 of the Moto3 World Championship Sasaki finished second, with his rookie teammate Colin Veijer snatching the race win. The next round in Qatar would be Masia’s first opportunity to wrap up the title.

The title decider

The race in Qatar would go down in the history books, creating controversy and opinions across social media. In the race, Masia showed some aggressive overtakes, pushing Sasaki wide when passing for the lead.

Drama unfolded after Sasaki lost a handful of positions before Leopard Racing rider Adrian Fernandez passed and ran Sasaki wide. On the final lap of the race with ground still, to make up, the Japanese rider made a mistake – almost high siding and losing time.

This allowed Jaume Masia to wrap up the Moto3 World Championship with one round remaining before he returned to Spain. Masia was delighted with the result and will move to Moto2 next season.

Masia said: “It’s hard to believe. It’s an amazing feeling. It took many years, with all the doubts, with all the injuries, with all the insecurities. I just want to thank my team and my family for believing in me the way they did. I dedicate this to my parents, for everything they have done for me.

“It’s been a tough few weeks, especially this last one. I was more nervous than usual, and it was very hard to manage.”

Ayumu Sasaki was gutted with the result but would be on the top step of the podium one week in Valencia. Speaking about the race in Qatar on social media, Mick Doohan said: “I’m in shock, no penalty for the riding standards shown by the winning rider, and team.” Ayumu Sasaki will also race in Moto2 next season, as he joins the Yamaha VR46 Master Camp team.

Next season will see the 2023 Moto3 rivals battle on track in the intermediate class, as they learn the brand-new Pirelli tyres. In Moto3, Angel Piqueras will replace Masia at Leopard Racing, hoping to follow in his footsteps. The first round of the season will take place at Qatar where drama will unfold again in March.

Image credit: motogp.com

Reigning British Superbike Champion, Tommy Bridewell will race for Honda in 2024.

Tommy Bridewell will switch teams and manufacturers next season, joining forces with Honda Racing UK. He will race with the number one plate next season and is aiming to defend his title.

With the addition of Bridewell, it means Honda Racing UK will have a three-rider line-up next season in BSB. He joins Andrew Irwin and Dean Harrison in the team, in an incredibly strong line-up. Jack Kennedy has also signed for Honda, racing the new CBR600RR in British Supersport.

Bridewell previously admitted to Motorsport Radio that he was in talks with Ducati, Honda, and BMW.

Watch the full interview here:

If Bridewell were to win the title, he would become the first to win consecutive BSB titles on different manufacturers. Running the number one plate next year allows Bridewell to become the first rider to defend number one since 2007. Ryuichi Kiyonari won the 2007 Championship with Honda Racing UK, winning with the number one plate.

Tommy Bridewell took eight race wins in 2023, claiming a total of 18 podiums with PBM Ducati. The Championship went down to the final race of the season and was decided between Bridewell and Glenn Irwin.

Bridewell said: “I am so excited to join such a prestigious brand, it is every rider’s dream to ride for Honda at some point and to bring with me the number 1 plate is just fantastic.

“The timing feels right, I have achieved my championship goals and now I am entirely focused on defending the title. I am coming here to Honda to do just that, to win another championship.

“I have always made my decisions on instinct and I always follow my gut, the opportunity here at Honda is something that I have always wanted to do and it was an easy decision to make.

“I’ve chosen to come to Honda as I feel this is the best team to help me defend my championship. Getting to ride a new bike is also really motivating and I am proud to run the number 1 plate for next season.”

Havier Beltran, Honda Racing UK Team Manager, commented: “Tommy is an enormously exciting rider and I am delighted to welcome him to Honda Racing UK. His achievements in the 2023 season showcased his exceptional talent and I firmly believe that his addition to our team will contribute significantly to our pursuit of success.

“I am certainly not alone in saying that I cannot wait to see what he is capable of achieving on our new Fireblade. Our target in 2024 is clear; we are going racing to win and to fight for the title.”

Image credit: Honda Racing UK

Fans were left stunned and shocked today as the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board (MCRCB) published the findings of it’s tribunal that there had been a breach of class technical regulations leading to the disqualification of Dan Linfoot from the event and in doing so, handing the championship to Richard Kerr.

Read the full decision here. Motorsport Radio will bring the latest reactions as the story develops.

Fabio di Giannantonio joins the Mooney VR46 Racing Team in 2024.

Fabio di Giannantonio completes the 2024 MotoGP grid, announcing a new partnership with the Mooney VR46 Racing Team. He will join Marco Bezzecchi in an all-Italian line-up for Valentino Rossi’s team.

After an incredible season, claiming his first race win at the Qatar Grand Prix, Fabio Di Giannantonio finds a seat for next season. On top of his winning success, Di Giannantonio claimed his first podium in Australia and a Sprint podium in Qatar.

He will get to test with his new time at the Valencia test tomorrow (Tuesday) when MotoGP’s 2024 season gets underway. Di Giannantonio had a great last round in Valencia, fighting for podiums and race wins. The Italian finished fourth in Sunday’s race and ahead of both VR46 riders.

He will replace Luca Marini in the VR46 Team, who will join the historic Repsol Honda squad, replacing Marc Marquez. The eight-time World Champion, Marquez, will move to Gresini Racing next year.

Di Giannantonio was not the only rider in contention for the ride, with the team admitting to looking at other young riders.

Di Giannantonio said: “I’m happy to join such a strong Team as the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, I can learn a lot and I can’t wait to start working together on this project, we can do really good things.

“In the last two seasons in MotoGP, I have grown a lot, and, in this team, I will certainly be able to mature further and achieve great results. I’m excited, I can’t wait to meet all my new staff and crew and start working on the track. Thanks to everyone who made this possible.”

Alessio Salucci, Team Director Mooney VR46 Racing Team added: “I am really happy to announce that Fabio will join our Team. It was an unexpected arrival, at the last minute but I am satisfied that we have chosen him. He had a great end of the season; he didn’t lose himself when things didn’t go well and I’m sure he’ll be able to feel at home here.

“On a motorsport level, he has proven to be among the fastest young Italians, he will continue to work with Ducati and the objective is to help him be not only competitive but also consistent in his results. It is an ambitious project, it marks a turning point in the history of our Team, but I am sure that we will all give our best to go in the same direction.”

Image credit: motogp.com

Luca Marini has officially announced that he will join Repsol Honda in 2024.

Luca Marini will officially join Repsol Honda, replacing Marc Marquez for the 2024 MotoGP season. The Italian will leave the VR46 squad, racing under the team’s banner since 2018 in Moto2.

He will follow in the footsteps of his older brother, Valentino Rossi and join the historic Japanese brand.

The 26-year-old ends all speculation for the ride, including riders such as Johann Zarco, Maverick Vinales, Miguel Oliveira, Fabio di Giannantonio, and Iker Lecuona. The deal was rumoured to be a one-year contract beginning next year.

However, Marini has signed a two-year deal and will race with Honda until the end of the 2025 season. He will join 2020 MotoGP World Champion Joan Mir, who has struggled since joining Repsol Honda.

Since joining MotoGP in 2021, Marini has claimed two pole positions and two podiums in the premier class. The Italian has scored a total of 362 points in the class, with a best of sixth in the Championship this year.

He has made no secret about his ambitions to ride for a factory team. Marini said: “It has always been my dream to be in a factory team, develop a bike and bring the manufacturer to victory. So, in my opinion, it’s the right moment.”

This leaves the VR46 Racing Team seat as the only vacant ride on the grid, with only one day before the test. Fabio Di Giannantonio is the rider expected to take over from Marini. Marco Bezzecchi has already signed to race for the team, which has been used to promote young Italian talent.

Fabio Di Giannantonio was left without a ride this year after Marc Marquez left Repsol Honda to join Gresini. It has been an impressive end to the season for Di Giannantonio, who claimed his first race win in Qatar.

Seats will be confirmed soon, with the postseason test in Valencia getting underway Tomorrow (Tuesday).

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After a dramatic final round, Francesco Bagnaia has been crowned the 2023 MotoGP World Champion.

Francesco Bagnaia has been crowned the MotoGP World Champion for the second consecutive season. He becomes the first rider to defend the number one plate since Mick Doohan and the first in the MotoGP era.

After a tense year, MotoGP headed to Valencia for the final round of the 20-weekend season. Martin won the Sprint on Saturday after a brilliant ride, reducing Bagnaia’s lead after he finished in fifth.

The title went down to the final race of the season, with Bagnaia leading Jorge Martin by 14 points. Bagnaia was promoted to pole after a penalty for Maverick Vinales after the Aprilia rider ignored the mechanical flag in the warm-up. Martin would start in sixth with an uphill task for the final battle of the year.

Martin made a near-perfect start to the race and slotted in second position – ready to battle with Bagnaia. However, Martin ran wide at turn one and dropped back to eighth position. After a couple of laps, Martin’s hopes came crashing down after he made contact with eight-time World Champion Marc Marquez.

The Prima Pramac Ducati rider crashed out of the race and handed Bagnaia the crown this year. Bagnaia was notified but continued to push to claim his seventh win of the 2023 season.

Bagnaia won seven Sunday races this season – identical to his Championship winner year in 2022. In total, Bagnaia took a total of 15 podiums and seven pole positions with the Ducati Lenovo Team. It’s his most successful season in the MotoGP class and Ducati’s third title since re-joining MotoGP in 2003.

Speaking about an incredible season, Bagnaia said: “I’m super happy, more than this is impossible, also because we won the race so it’s fantastic. I want to say a big thanks to all the team, they did an amazing job, from Barcelona. It was quite tough for us, but we deserved this title more than anyone.

“I didn’t see anything behind me, I was thinking Jorge was still in the race, and I was quite scared about that. I just was thinking of winning the race because it was the best way to finish the season.”

It has also been an incredible year for Ducati, winning the MotoGP, WorldSBK, and British Superbike Championships in 2023.

The now two-time World Champion will test the 2024 machine on Tuesday at the Valencia pre-season test. The factory Ducati camp will stay the same, but Martin will have a new teammate next year in the form of Franco Morbidelli.

Image credit: Ducati Media

With just one race left this season and the Championship gap reducing tension is brewing in the paddock. Let’s look at what we have learned from the final MotoGP Sprint of the season in Valencia.

14 points

Just 14 points now separate Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) and the chasing Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing). Martin won the Tissot Sprint on Saturday, finishing just 0.190 ahead of Brad Binder ( Red Bull KTM Factory Racing).

Francesco Bagnaia finished down in fifth, with the Italian hoping to defend his title and the number one plate. While Martin scored the full 12 points, he also reduced the gap in the standings by seven points.

Beginning tomorrow’s race from pole position will be Maverick Vinales (Aprilia Racing) with Bagnaia alongside. Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) will be hoping to help his teammate – starting from third. His teammate, Martin, will be forced to go from sixth after a poor qualifying result.

Conditions for the final race of the year look similar to the Sprint, with temperatures of around 20 degrees expected. For Martin to win the title tomorrow, he needs to win, and Bagnaia needs to be sixth or below.

Tension builds

Heading into the weekend, there was already frustration inside Martin’s camp after a tough weekend in Qatar. Martin finished 10^th place in the main race at Lusail, putting his poor result down to tyre problems. Michelin continues to investigate the tyre issue and has not found any noticeable problems with his tyre yet.

Over the first two days of running in Valencia, there has been some clear tension between the two Ducati teams. In Practice on Friday, Martin followed Bagnaia throughout the final session on the opening day.

This frustrated the Ducati team, with Davide Tardozzi standing outside the Pramac box – trying to stop Martin from following. With added pressure on Bagnaia and some mistakes in his lap, it forced the Italian to go through Q1.

Speaking after the Sprint race, Tardozzi said: “It was a tough day, we were expecting more after this morning’s session and qualifying. 15 is the minimum that we can accept to lose, Jorge Martin rode a fantastic race and deserved to win. Pecco is a bit p***** because he didn’t find the confidence to let him fight for the podium.”

Musical chairs continue

Silly season continues in the MotoGP paddock, with another piece of the puzzle beginning to slot into place. Luca Marini announced that he will leave the Mooney VR46 Racing Team at the end of the 2023 season. His future is unconfirmed, with rumours suggesting a switch to Repsol Honda.

Fabio Di Giannantonio looked to respect the factory Ducati in the MotoGP Sprint, with the Italian yet to confirm a ride for next year. Di Giannantonio was sixth, behind Bagnaia, just one week after winning his first Grand Prix.

Fermin Aldeguer continues to impress members of the paddock, showing why he deserves a MotoGP ride. Aldeguer claimed another front-row start on Saturday and is aiming to win his fourth consecutive Moto2 race. The last rider to win four Moto2 races in a row was Toni Elias in 2010.

Image credit: motogp.com

Luca Marini will part ways with the Mooney VR46 Team

Luca Marini has officially announced that he will leave the Mooney VR46 Team at the end of the season. The Italian’s future is unconfirmed, with rumours suggesting a switch to Repsol Honda.

Marini will enter his fourth season in the premier class and leave the VR46 team banner after seven consecutive years. The 26-year-old first entered MotoGP in 2021 with the Sky VR46 Avintia Ducati team after finishing runner-up in Moto2. He has had a consistent MotoGP career, constantly battling within the top 10.

Luca Marini is having a career-best season in 2023, currently sitting in seventh position with one round remaining. His first premier class podium came in 2023, finishing second in COTA before finishing third in Qatar.

The Repsol Honda seat became vacant after the departure of Marc Marquez mid-contract this season. He will join the Gresini team and will replace Fabio Di Giannantonio. Marini’s future is set to be announced as early as Monday.

His replacement at the Mooney VR46 Team is yet to be decided, with Valentino Rossi in attendance to make the decision in Valencia. Fabio Di Giannantonio is one of the team options as well as a young rider who is yet to make his MotoGP debut.

For the full run down:

Marini said: “I spent most of my Championship career in this Team, so many of the most significant moments of my career so far are linked to this group of people. We have grown a lot together and have gained a lot of satisfaction.

“This will be my last race with the Mooney VR46 Racing Team: I thought a lot before making this decision and evaluated the new challenges I will face. I leave behind a fantastic Team that contributed to my growth and knowledge of the technical aspects and complexity that characterise this kind of sport.

“It’s time to embrace a new path with enthusiasm, without denying what has been, but with the eyes focused on the future.”

Alessio Salucci, Team Director: “I have really seen Luca grow, since he was a child, then from a motorsport point of view I had the pleasure of seeing him become one of the strongest riders in MotoGP.

“I’m happy to have shared six beautiful seasons with him in this project. From the first satisfactions in Moto2, the second place in the Championship in 2020, then the debut in MotoGP, the birth of our Team in the Top class and a 2023 where he managed to be a real protagonist.

“Luca is a professional with few equals, a technician, a true passionate enthusiast before being a rider and then a great worker. It is a pity to let him go, he will be a really tough opponent in the future, but an opportunity of this type is too much important not to be considered, and I sincerely I wish him, together with the whole Team, the very best of luck.”

Image credit: motogp.com

With one round remaining, is Luca Marini going to leave Ducati for Honda?

Testing for the 2024 MotoGP season is just days after the final Grand Prix of the year in Valencia. However, not all seats were confirmed, with the Repsol Honda seat in the factory team up for grabs.

Luca Marini is now in the driving seat for the Repsol Honda ride next season, leaving the VR46 squad. It will be an unexpected move for the Italian, who will enter his fourth season in MotoGP. However, the deal is rumoured to be completed, with Motorsport Radio’s sources expecting an announcement as early as Monday.

Marini is currently seventh in the MotoGP World Championship and claimed two podiums in 2023. It has been a good year for the Italian who has always been incredibly strong on the fast Ducati.

Marini said: “It has always been my dream to be in a factory team, develop a bike and bring the manufacturer to victory. So, in my opinion, it’s the right moment,”

Marini may not be the only change in the Repsol Honda camp next year, with a potential change at the top of the team. Davide Brivio will reportedly replace Alberto Puig as the Repsol Honda team boss next season.

This change would be massive and would end a historic relationship for Puig and Repsol Honda. It would also open the door for Brivio to return to the MotoGP paddock after joining the Alpine F1 Team in 2021.

Who would join VR46?

Marini moving to Honda could help a fellow Italian and recent MotoGP race winner, Fabio Di Giannantonio. Current Gresini Racing rider Di Giannantonio is without a ride in 2024 after the signing of Marc Marquez.

Speaking in the pre-event press conference on Thursday, Di Giannantonio admitted that he had brought a helmet and leathers for the test on Tuesday. The VR46 team is used to promote young talent, allowing Fabio Di Giannantonio to tick all the boxes.

Uccuio Salucci told the MotoGP World Feed that they are also looking at another young rider with no decision confirmed. One young Italian who has been incredibly quick is Tony Arobolino who finished second in the Moto2 World Championship. Because of this decision, Valentino Rossi is in attendance in Valencia to make the final decision.

Who else was talking to Honda?

There have been many riders who were linked to the ride for next season, including Miguel Oliveira. The Portuguese rider was rumoured to be approached by the team, with talks eventually dying down.

Johann Zarco’s name was also thrown into the hat, with the Frenchman joining LCR Honda next year. Zarco was offered a one-year deal in the factory team before moving back to LCR in 2025. The recent MotoGP race winner was not happy with this deal and would rather focus on LCR’s project.

Iker Lecuona voiced his desire to return to the Grand Prix paddock next season after two years in WorldSBK. Lecuona has raced in six MotoGP races this season and has been a suitable replacement rider. However, talks died down, and Lecuona’s hopes were crushed once again.

Fermin Aldeguer was the most recent rider to have his name tipped for the ride next season after a great end to his year. The Spaniard comes off the back of three consecutive race wins and claims that he was in talks with Honda. However, Alberto Puig shut these talks down and claimed that the team had never contacted the Moto2 rider.

With less than five days until the first test of 2024, a day will be announced very soon and as early as Monday. Before that, there is still the MotoGP World Championship to be decided under the Valencian sun.

Image credit: motogp.com

The final MotoGP race of the year is upon us, and once again, Valencia will host the final round. After 20 weekends, it all comes down to the final two races of the season, with 21 points separating the Championship rivals.

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) continues to lead, and satellite rider Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Ducati) is still chasing behind. It was a terrible round in Qatar for Jorge Martin after he ran into issues in the main race. Martin finished 10^th in the race and complained about tyre issues.

The Moto3 and Moto2 World Championships are already wrapped up, with Masia claiming the Moto3 title in Qatar. The Spaniard won the Championship in dramatic fashion after a hard race with Sasaki. Pedro Acosta wrapped up the title one round earlier in Malaysia before he stepped up to the premier class.

Alex Rins (LCR Honda CASTROL) will return for the final round before a switch to the factory Yamaha team. However, Miguel Oliveira (CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team) has been declared unfit, with Lorenzo Savadori stepping in (Aprilia test rider). This means after 20 rounds, we have had none, with all riders starting the race on Sunday.

The weather forecast looks comfortable and much colder than previous rounds, with a high of 22 degrees. However, the Valencia circuit has its own challenges, with the dreaded turn four known for catching out riders.

The Championship is not over

Both riders have a realistic chance of winning the title this weekend with 37 points up for grabs. Bagnaia and Martin are incredibly quick in Valencia, with the best race lap of all time belonging to the Italian.

Both riders have a realistic chance of winning the title this weekend with 37 points up for grabs. Bagnaia and Martin are also incredibly quick in Valencia, with the best race lap of all time belonging to the Italian.

Last year, Jorge Martin qualified on pole position and finished third in the race around the tricky Ricardo Tormo Circuit. Bagnaia, on the other hand, only finished in ninth, which would allow him to become the 2022 Champion. If Bagnaia were to win, he would become the first rider to defend the #1 plate successfully in the MotoGP era.

Tyres could potentially play a part this weekend, with Martin blaming his result last round on the tyre. The Spaniard compared it to riding in the wet conditions but when speaking to motogp.com, he admitted that “anything can happen in Valencia”.

The circuit has been known for some dramatic Championship finals – the most memorable being in 2006. Heading into the final round, Valentino Rossi led the Championship by eight points from Nicky Hayden. Rossi would crash at turn two, losing the front and losing the Championship.

Unknown for 2024

Many unknown factors are still yet to be answered regarding next season. An announcement is expected soon, with the first preseason test will take place on Tuesday in Valencia, with seats undecided for next year.

The big ride which has not been decided on is the factory Honda seat – to replace Marc Marquez. Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) is the rider who is currently at the front of the line for the ride. Marini has hinted at the deal but has yet to confirm that he will race for Repsol Honda in 2024.

This would, in turn, leave a seat at the VR46 Racing Team, which is used to help promote young Italian talent. This leaves the seat perfectly open for Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP). The 25-year-old recently won his first race in Qatar and admitted that he has brought leathers and a helmet to test with.

This complication started with eight-time World Champion Marc Marquez announced he would leave Repsol Honda mid-contract. He later announced a switch to Gresini Racing next year, replacing Di Giannantonio. The media and riders will also be on the lookout on Tuesday to see how he does on a Ducati for the first time.

Image credit: motogp.com

The first day of action has concluded in Qatar with surprises at the top and frustration brewing for some Championship contenders. Let’s have a look at three things we learned on Friday.

Aprilia on top

The Aprilia factory had an incredibly successful day, with Raul Fernandez (CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team) at the top of the time sheets. The young Spaniard completed 20 laps in the one-hour Practice session, setting a time of 1:52.843. Fernandez completed five runs, setting his quickest time on the soft tyre.

The factory duo had a great day under the floodlights, with Maverick Vinales (Aprilia Racing) provisionally breaking the lap record. The time was taken away and dropped down to third at the end of the session.

His teammate, Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing), had a great day, finishing inside the top five in Practice. Espargaro had a small crash at the beginning of the day but would not affect his confidence. On the final Aprilia was Miguel Oliveira (CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team), who admitted to having the pace but made too many mistakes.

Rain falling on Thursday

Heavy rain fell in Qatar on Thursday evening after the important media day for the press. This resulted in the surrounding roads being flooded outside the circuits as well as surrounding hotels.

On Friday morning, this meant there was a very green circuit (low grip), resulting in a tight racing line. The first session for all three classes was sketchy, with riders cautiously circulating around the track.

Many riders crashed, including Aleix Espargaro, Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), and Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Ducati). The circuit is likely to be swept again before the end of the weekend.

If the rain were to fall this weekend, we could see a delay or a cancellation of the session. MotoGP has only experienced this twice, with the 2009 race pushed to Monday due to rain and 2017’s qualifying session cancelled. The issue is the reflection/glare due to the floodlights.

Tensions brewing in the paddock

Pol Espargaro (GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3) and Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) had multiple moments throughout the day. Espargaro and Bezzecchi were close to making contact with each other.

Frustrations brewed after the session was completed, with Bezzecchi hitting the back of the GASGAS machine. The Italian proceeded to run into the back a further four times before eventually riding away.

Jorge Martin had his own frustrations after becoming another victim of the tight racing line. After running wide multiple times, Martin had near crashes on the dirty side of the circuit, left from the rain. This left a very frustrated Jorge Martin, who continues to chase Bagnaia in the Championship.

Two days remain, with 14 points separating Martin and Bagnaia in the MotoGP World Championship. After the Malaysian Grand Prix, Baganaia and Martin both had a tyre pressure warning. This means both riders will receive a penalty if they break the limit again. It could be a title-changing weekend in Qatar, with no more rain expected for the remainder of the round.

Image credit: motogp.com

Dean Harrison joins Andrew Irwin at Honda Racing UK for the 2024 season.

Honda Racing UK have announced their 2024 British Superbike rider line-up with Dean Harrison joining the team. Andrew Irwin will return for his second consecutive season with the team.

Top road racing contender Dean Harrison moves from DAO Racing, ending an eight-year partnership. Dean has made over 110 starts for the DAO Racing team in British Superbikes with a best finish of eighth. He raced with the team at both the Isle of Man TT and the British Superbike Championship they experienced great success at the TT. With three Isle of Man TT wins including the 2019 Senior TT.

He will switch to the Honda Racing UK team, racing in both BSB and the historic Isle of Man TT. He will join John McGuinness and Nathan Harrison for Road Racing and Irwin in British Superbikes.

Harrison said: “I can’t wait to begin a new chapter with Honda Racing UK, and I jumped at the chance when this opportunity came about. If I’m honest, it hasn’t sunk in yet and I don’t think it will until I get to ride the bike for the first time in Honda colours.

“It feels like a really good time to have a refresh and now is as good a time as any for a change. I have always been a Honda fan, and Honda is the way I want to go.

“I am also really looking forward to being part of a multi-rider team after riding in a solo team for so long. To be able to see each other’s data and collaborate on ideas is going to be of great value to me.

“The short circuits are a big part of my season and I think that working with Andrew and the team will help to bring me on and push me to the next level. I think that the Honda package, with the new bike, could be the missing link that I need.”

This season has been a tough year for Andrew Irwin, who suffered from injuries and returns to the team. At the beginning of the season, Irwin suffered from a right humerus fracture at the Knockhill test. Irwin finished the season in 18^th in the standings after missing six rounds of the Championship.

Andrew Irwin’s first season with the Honda Racing UK team came in 2019 – he would stay until the end of 2020. In the 2020 season, Andrew Irwin finished sixth in the standings, ahead of Tommy Bridewell.

Irwin said: “I am looking forward to 2024 with the new Fireblade, I think this bike is going to give us a step forward and I can’t wait to race it. The bike is already more than capable of doing the job so to see improvements is hugely motivating.

“Continuing for another year with Honda has always been my priority and I want to put 2023 behind me and focus all my attention and energy on 2024. I am under no illusions that I need to have a good season, I am going into 2024 to rebuild my career after a very difficult 2023, and I want to come back and be fast and always be there fighting.

“Consistency is what works and getting to maintain that for another year with Honda is crucial to building some momentum. Sometimes a break is as good as anything, and I’ve had a long old break. I’m hungry, I’m motivated and I’m eager to get going again.”

Image credit: Honda Racing UK

Marcos Ramirez has signed to race for the American Racing Team next season.

Recent Moto2 podium finisher Marcos Ramirez will race for the American Racing Team next year. The Spaniard will join the team which he has raced with for the final half of the 2023 season.

Ramirez joined the American Racing team after the summer break in Austria this season. The deal came as Sean Dylan Kelly departed from the team mid-contract before later finding a ride with Forward Racing.

Since joining the team mid-season, Ramirez was straight inside the points and finished 14^th in the Austrian Grand Prix. His best result of his Moto2 career came at the recent Malaysian Grand Prix, claiming his first podium.

Rory Skinner was contracted to race for the team next year after signing a two-year deal at the beginning of the season. However, Skinner will not race under the American Racing banner next season with his future unknown. The best result of his season came in Australia, where the Scots finished 12th – scoring his first points.

The American Racing Team provided an update on Skinners’ current contract situation. In a statement on social media, the American Racing team wrote: “We believe in him and know he has the talent to be competitive in Moto2. We as a team are currently working on how to best secure his future on the World Stage while continuing to support him during the coming off-season and beyond.”

At the beginning of the 2023 season, Skinner said: “I’m delighted to be joining American Racing for the next two seasons. Racing in the Grand Prix paddock is every rider’s dream, and opportunities like these don’t come along often, especially for British riders.”

It has been a learning year for Skinner who moved to Moto2 after two years in British Superbikes. Skinner raced for FS3 in BSB and is now managed by American Racing team boss, John Hopkins.

Joe Roberts looks to be joining Ramirez in the team next season, who recently signed to return to the team. Roberts last raced for the team in the 2020 Moto2 World Championship, spending two years with the team. The American scored three pole positions and one podium with the team before joining Italtrans Racing.

Speaking about the deal in August, Roberts said: “I’m excited to be back with American Racing. We had a great season together in 2020 and feel we can bring that magic back again next season. So I’m looking forward to continuing what Eitan, John, Avner, and I started.”

Image credit: motogp.com

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) qualified on pole position. Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Ducati) and Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) rounded out the front row, with Ducati locking out the front two rows. However, Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP) came from fourth to first to win the Sprint, with an exciting Grand Prix in store.

The entire front row had a perfect start and charged towards the tight, twisty first corner. Martin braked the latest but ran himself and Bagnaia wide, allowing Bastianini to take the race lead. Jorge Martin dropped to fifth, with Francesco Bagnaia in third place.

The real gainer in the first lap was the Spirit winner, Alex Marquez, who jumped to second place. Bastianini and Marquez bridged a comfortable gap at the front from the Championship rivals.

Tyres where the talk before the race began with 46 degrees track temperature and double the distance. Despite this, the entire field picked the medium-medium tyre combination for the main race.

Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team) was the first crasher of the race and was the team’s 50^th crash of the season. Miguel Oliveira (CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team) crashed one lap later on the entry to the back straight. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) also suffered his fifth crash of the weekend at turn nine.

Francesco Bagnaia escaped the clutches of Martin by extending a gap of a second in third position.

The battle for sixth was fierce, with Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) leading Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP), and Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). Binder crashed out of the race two laps later, ending his race prematurely.

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing) continued to struggle this weekend, riding in 17^th out of the 18^th runners. Bautista was behind Iker Lecuona (LCR Honda CASTROL), a replacement rider for Alex Rins this weekend.

As the race continued, Enea Bastianini continued to lead, extending his gap to almost two seconds. Alex Marquez was three-tenths slower a lap, with Bagnaia a further two seconds behind.

Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) was the last rider in the top 10, with decisions to be made about his future. Marini is rumoured to be in talks with Repsol Honda for a two-year deal beginning next season.

On the final lap, Enea Bastianini kept cool, calm, and collected and came across the line to become the seventh winner of the season. Alex Marquez claimed another podium in 2023, finishing in second. Francesco Bagnaia rounded off the podium and importantly, extended his Championship gap.

Jorge Martin looked disappointed with a fourth-place finish in front of Fabio Quartararo, who rounded out the top five. Marco Bezzecchi came home in sixth and as the first VR46 Ducati.

Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), was a further one second behind in seventh place. Jack Miller was behind in eighth and finished as the top RC16 after his teammate crashed out.

Fabio Di Giannantonio was ninth as he continues to battle for his future in the Grand Prix paddock. Fellow Ducati rider rounded out the top 10 after a tough race at Sepang with rumours surrounding the Italian’s future.

The Championship gap is now 14 points with two rounds remaining this year – the next in one week in Qatar.

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Image credit: Ducati Media

Pedro Acosta is your 2023 Moto2 World Championship with Fermin Aldeguer on the top step.

Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) was once again on pole position in Moto2 after a great lap in qualifying. Celestino Vietti (Fantic Racing) and Manuel Gonzalez (Correos Prepago Yamaha VR46 Team) rounded off the front row. However, all eyes were on Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo), who was looking to wrap up the title.

Fermin Aldeguer and Manuel Gonzalez were side by side on the entry to turn one, with nobody wanting to give an inch. Contact was made, and Gonzalez was down on the entry to turn two.

Pedro Acosta had a magical start from sixth position and was second by the end of the first lap. His Championship rival, Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team),  was down in seventh at the end of lap one. Arbolino made contact with the back of Ai Ogura’s (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) bike.

This contact dropped Arbolino outside of the point-scoring positions, meaning that Acosta had to finish. Celestino Vietti was another rider to crash in the opening stage with his left glove coming off. Izan Guevara (Inde GASGAS Aspar Team) crashed seconds later under the yellow flag conditions.

A couple of laps later, a near identical crash with Sergio Garcia (Pons Wegow Los40) losing the front at turn nine. Kohta Nozane (Correos Prepago Yamaha VR46 Team) was the rider to crash seconds later under the yellow flag conditions. Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) had a crash a lap later at turn one.

Marcos Ramirez (OnlyFans American Racing) managed to fight his way into a podium position. Ramirez continued what was a great weekend, ahead of his teammate Rory Skinner (OnlyFans American Racing), who is 21^st as he continues to learn the Moto2 class.

Jake Dixon (Inde GASGAS Aspar Team) was in sixth position in a trio of riders battling for sixth place. Fellow Brit Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) was inside the top 10, battling with Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia).

Too little too late for Arbolino

Tony Arbolino tried his best and made his way inside the points with five laps remaining in the race. However, it would not be enough with Pedro Acosta effectively having one hand on the trophy.

The battle for the final podium position was on between Marcos Ramirez and Ai Ogura, with four laps to go. Ramirez was closing in on the American Racing rider by three-tenths each lap.

Pedro Acosta came across the line in second position to become the second youngest Moto2 World Champion. Acosta has won seven races this season, achieving an incredible tally of 14 podiums in 2023. The 19-year-old celebrated with his family on the exit of turn one and with his mascot (the shark).

It has been an incredible year for Pedro Acosta, who won his second World Championship after three seasons in the paddock. After joining the paddock in 2021, coming off the back of a Red Bull Rookie Cup title, he came into the paddock in style. Acosta won the Moto3 Championship in his rookie season and now the Moto2 title in his second year in the class.

Marcos Ramirez came home in third position to take his first podium of the season, rounding off a delighted podium. Ai Ogura could not find a way through, finishing in fourth position on the Honda Team Asia machine. Jake Dixon did find a way into fifth place in the end, rounding off a consistent weekend.

Somkiat Chantra was in sixth place, finishing ahead of Sam Lowes, who came home in seventh position. Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team) rounded out the top eight in the intermediate class.

Albert Arenas (Red Bull KTM Ajo) will join in on his teammate’s celebrations this weekend after a top-nine finish. Tony Arbolino rounded out the top 10 after missing out on the Championship this season.

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Collin Veijer wins his first Grand Prix at Sepang as the Championship gap closes.

After a brilliant lap in qualifying, Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) qualified on pole position for the Moto3 race. He was the first Moto3 rider in the 2-minute 10-second bracket and was 0.906 faster than anyone else. The sensational rookie Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) and Matteo Bertelle (Rivacold Snipers Team) join him on the front row.

As the lights went out, it was an incredible start for Ivan Ortola (Angeluss MTA Team), but Coin Veijer would brake the latest and lead into turn one. The track temperature was 45 degrees in the extremely humid conditions in Malaysia.

Jaume Masia eventually hit the front of the field on lap two and instantly put the hammer down, trying to stretch a gap. Veijer’s teammate, Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) jumped to second and chased Masia.

Romano Fenati (Rivacold Snipers Team) was the first rider to crash out of the race on lap four at turn four. There was a huge crash involving five riders on lap five, including two Championship contenders.

David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team), Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3), Riccardo Rossi, (SIC58 Squadra Corse) Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia), and Diogo Moreira (MT Helmets – MSI) were out. Luckily, everybody managed to walk away from the horrific incident.

The race continued and the front group got smaller, with six riders battling for the win at the halfway point. The lead changed every corner, with Deniz Oncu (Red Bull KTM Ajo) now in the mix for the win. However, Collin Veijer and Sasaki looked the most comfortable and had the perfect gearing out of the corner.

Tactics were in play at the front, with nobody able to get into a rhythm and pull away from the pack. Riders were also riding on the white line on the straight, inches away from the pit boards and pit wall.

Scott Ogden (VisionTrack Racing Team) made his way inside the points with five laps remaining. His teammate and fellow Brit, Josh Whatley VisionTrack Racing Team), was in 17^th, battling for the final point-scoring positions.

It was a huge disappointment for home rider Syarifuddin Azman (MT Helmets – MSI), who crashed out of the race. Kaito Toba (SIC58 Squadra Corse) was also a victim to the tricky hot conditions in Sepang.

The group at the front became just three after Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) out braked himself into the final corner. He then made contact with Bertelle and Oncu – taking Oncu out and sending Bertelle wide.

It was a dramatic final lap, but it would all go down to the final corner of the Malaysian Grand Prix. Collin Veijer managed to hold off his teammate to win his first Moto3 race in his rookie season. Sasaki came home in second and, importantly, finished ahead of his Championship rival Masia.

Ivan Ortola lost touch to the front group but finished in a respectable fourth place onboard the MTA machine. David Munoz rounded out the top five in a thrilling race at the Sepang International Circuit.

Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing) was unable to help his teammate in the front group and finished in sixth. The two CFMOTO machines, Xavier Artigas (CFMOTO Racing PruestelGP) and Joel Kelso (CFMOTO Racing PruestelGP), rounded out the top eight.

Rounding out the top 10 were Filippo Farioli (Red Bull KTM Tech3 and Ryusei Yamanaka (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team). Both British riders, Ogden and Whatley, managed to finish inside the points after consistent rides.

Masia continues to lead the Championship but has a reduced gap of 13 points with two rounds remaining. Moto3 will be back in action in one week’s time at the technically Lusail International Circuit.

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Alex Marquez wins the Sepang Sprint with Bagnaia’s Championship lead reduced to 11 points.

After an exciting qualifying, Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) qualified on pole position. Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Ducati) was in second, with Ducati locking out the front two rows. There was a chance of rain before the Sprint, with clouds looming over the Sepang circuit.

As the lights went out, it was Francesco Bagnaia who led the field through with his teammate Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team)  behind. Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP) quickly made a move into second at turn four.

Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) had a magnificent start to the race after qualifying in 10^th. Miller was fourth after one lap and ahead of his teammate Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing).

Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) had a dreadful start, dropping 10 positions in two laps. The Frenchman qualified in a respectful eighth before dropping down to 18^th.

Alex Marquez made his first move early, passing Bagnaia at the tricky final corner of Sepang. Marquez ran wide, allowing Bagnaia and Martin through and dropping down to third. At turn four, Alex Marquez made his way into second again, passing Martin on the brakes.

Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) crashed out of the race after losing the front onboard the RC213V. The eight-time World Champion was running in 13^th position with three rounds remaining before he went to Ducati. His teammate, Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team), had his own crash in 15^th at the final corner one lap later.

Bastianini had a great end to the race, bridging a gap to Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team). The factory Ducati rider overtakes both KTMs again, making his way in fourth behind his teammate.

Bagnaia and Marquez continued to battle with five laps remaining as the front four riders began to bunch together. Alex Marquez took the Sprint lead on the entry to the tricky turn nine.

Jorge Martin found his way through a handful of corners late, allowing Bastianini to take close in. Questions were on whether his teammate would attack and take away points from his teammate in the Championship.

Bagnaia picked up a piece of debris from the circuit, which would stick to his front fairing for two laps.

Fabio Quartararo’s pace did not get any better, continuing to drop back outside the points on his Yamaha. His teammate, Franco Morbidelli, was in 11^th position, battling for a handful of points.

Morbidelli was behind Maverick Vinales, the last rider in the top 10 and the top Aprilia in the Sprint. It was valuable data for everything for Sunday’s race.

On the final lap, all questions were on whether Bastianini would make a move on his teammate for third. Bagnaia did not have the pace and pushed his teammate back into the hands of Brad Binder.

At the line, Alex Marquez came across to win the MotoGP Sprint by a comfortable margin of over one second. Jorge Martin came across the line to pick up valuable points in the Championship. The gap in the Championship is now just 11 points, with the main race still to come on Sunday.

Francesco Bagnaia rounded off the podium after damage limitation in the MotoGP Sprint with work to do for Sunday. Brad Binder managed to get the better of his teammate, rounding out the top five. Jack Miller was in sixth place in an intense sprint for the Australian after an excellent opening part of the race.

Marco Bezzecchi had a solid points finish in seventh as he continues to recover his collarbone injury. Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Ducati)  was in eighth ahead of Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team), who scored the final point in ninth.

The heavens opened, and the rain came after the Sprint had finished, with Sunday’s forecast looking unpredictable.

Image credit: Red Bull Content Pool

Francesco Bagnaia will start the Grand Prix from pole after a thrilling Qualifying.

Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP) was the fastest rider in Practice after a strong showing on the Ducati. It was perfect conditions for qualifying, with rain expected at some point during the day.

In Q1, Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) set their banker laps early. All riders put everything on the line with Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) outside of the bubble.

After a frantic couple of minutes, Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP) set the session’s fastest time. Di Giannantonio continues to impress as he continues to fight for a ride next season.

Enea Bastianini could not go any quicker than the fellow Italian but set a time quick enough for Q2. Nobody could go quicker with the two Ducati riders, making the move into the final qualifying.

Aleix Espargaro was just outside the top two and a further 0.158 behind Bastianini after a tough weekend. Espargaro had four crashes in Friday’s running and is still trying to feel comfortable at Sepang.

Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) will have to start this weekend’s Grand Prix in 20^th after a disastrous qualifying. After looking for a tow and a late-on crash, Marquez missed out by 0.894.

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing) will start the Grand Prix down in 22^nd on the grid as he continues to adapt to the MotoGP bike. The experienced wildcard comes off the back of winning two consecutive WorldSBK titles. He will start the race ahead of fellow WorldSBK rider Iker Lecuona (LCR Honda CASTROL), who replaces Alex Rins.

Q2

After a tense qualifying session, the Championship leader left it until the final lap at the final minute. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) managed to put in an incredible 1:57.491 to snatch the pole position.

He will start the race ahead of his rival, Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Ducati) who led for most of the session. His lap time was just 0.058 behind Bagnaia, with fans preparing for another thriller this weekend. Martin has won the last five MotoGP Sprints and will be feeling confident ahead of Saturday’s race.

Enea Bastianini will start the race from a remarkable third position, rounding off the front row of the grid. Bastianini only had one set of new tyres as he had to go through Q1, meaning the Italian only completed four laps.

Alex Marquez set a 1:57.661 in qualifying, allowing the Spaniard to qualify in fourth position in Malaysia. Marquez put in the laps, setting seven laps across the frantic 15-minute qualifying session.

Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) led the early part of Q2 and looked strong ahead of the second run. The Italian had a crash with two minutes remaining, ending his session prematurely. Marini will start the Grand Prix in fifth place and will be a contender for the win this weekend.

Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) was behind his teammate, a further 0.018 behind. This will allow Marco Bezzecchi to start the race this weekend from sixth position. Bezzecchi also rounds off the second row of the grid, with Ducati locking out the front two rows.

Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was the first non-Ducati in seventh position onboard his KTM. He was ahead of Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), who looks very strong this weekend.

Maverick Vinales Aprilia Racing was the only Aprilia rider in the final qualifying session, ending it in ninth. Vinales and the Aprilia riders are experimenting with new parts this weekend to cope with the heat onboard the bike.

He was ahead of Jack Miller Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, who starts the fourth row of the grid. Joining Miller on the fourth row of the grid will be Fabio Di Giannantonio, who couldn’t find the extra second to make an impact on the session. Behind the Italian was Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Ducati), who recently won his first MotoGP race.

The 10-lap MotoGP Sprint will start at 07:00 on Saturday with an exciting battle in store in the heat.

Image credit: Ducati Media

With the Valencia test approaching, Repsol Honda is talking to many riders but is yet to make a decision.

Since Marc Marquez announced his departure from Repsol Honda, there has been a frenzy trying to find a replacement. Multiple riders have been linked to the seat for a one-year deal to remain or move to MotoGP. With the first test of 2024 taking place on 28^th November, time is running out.

There have been many failed talks for Repsol Honda after approaching multiple MotoGP riders. Luca Marini is one ride who has been confirmed to have been approached by the historic manufacturer. Marini quickly shut down these rumours by adding that it is not the “right situation” at the moment.

Another rider who was approached was Miguel Oliveira, who spent 2023 racing for RNF Aprilia. However, it looks like the Portuguese rider will stick with the RNF squad next season until the end of his contract. Talks between himself and Honda have died down, with Oliveira reportedly sensing a lack of strategy from Honda.

Johann Zarco announced a switch to Honda next year, joining the LCR Honda team in 2024. Zarco did confirm that he was approached to do one year at Repsol Honda before returning to LCR. However, the recent MotoGP race winner did not opt for this as he would rather use all his energy on the LCR project.

Iker Lecuona’s hat was originally thrown into a ring after acting as a replacement rider this season. Lecuona has raced in six MotoGP races this season and is currently racing for HRC in WorldSBK. Speaking about the reports, Lecuona confirmed that he won’t be on the bike next year and has not been told who will ride the machine next year.

“No! Honestly, no, and that hurts, hurts a lot.” Lecuona told AS after he announced that he is no longer in the running for the seat.

A switch of seats

Fabio Di Giannantonio ends his second season in the premier class without a ride for next season. The Italian has spent the last two years racing onboard the Ducati with Gresini Racing in MotoGP.

The past two years have been tough for Di Giannantonio, with one top-10 finish in his rookie season. However, he made a breakthrough this year with a fourth place in Indonesia and a podium in Australia. This podium has raised eyebrows in the paddock, with many teams looking at the Italian in 2024.

Marc Marquez’s move to Gresini next season has left Fabio Di Giannantonio without a ride. Thanks to recent results it has put Di Giannantonio in the driving seat for the Honda ride next season. In Malaysia, the 25-year-old confirmed that he is still in talks with the manufacturer.

Di Giannantonio told motogp.com: “Well, let’s say that for me also, I wanted to have some news here, but we are still working on it. For sure, we are taking steps forward. But at the moment, not any significant step, let’s say.”

The step up from Moto2

Fermin Aldeguer heads to the Malaysian Grand Prix on a high, with podiums in the last three rounds and a win in Thailand. The Spaniard took his Moto2 race win at Silverstone in his second full year in the class.

Aldeguer’s name has only recently been put into the hat, but rumours about the 18-year-old have spread like wildfire. At the beginning of the Malaysian Grand Prix weekend, Aldeguer confirmed the talks were true.

Speaking to motogp.com, Aldeguer said: “The call was there but I don’t have anything on the table, in the end, Honda is looking for one rider and maybe my name is one of those. Also, there is [Fabio] Di Giannantonio so we have to wait. My mind is on Moto2 and to continue the progression.”

It sounds like a decision will be made soon, with Aldeguer later adding that a decision will be made within the next two rounds. Aldeguer added: “Maybe this race, maybe Qatar.”

Aleix Espargaro believes it would be the right move. Espargaro told motogp.com: “Fermin is ready, he’s very fast. In the last races, he’s shown how fast he is. He reminds me a little bit of Fabio [Quartararo] with his style on the bike, it’s also the same way of going to MotoGP,” Espargaro said on Thursday in Malaysia.”

Image credit: Repsol Media

As title tension begins to build, the paddock prepares for the final three rounds of the season.

MotoGP returns this weekend after a one-week break for round 18 of the Championship in Malaysia. It is the start of a triple header for the Championship, with the title fight looking as close as ever.

The gap in the Championship is just 13 points, with Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) continuing to lead. Satellite rider Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Ducati) is in chase and is on a roll, winning the last five MotoGP Sprints. Mathematically, three riders can still win the MotoGP World Championship in 2023, with Marco Bezzecchi a further 66 points behind.

However, the World Championship can be wrapped up this weekend in the Moto2 class. Pedro Acosta currently leads the Moto2 Championship by 63 points, with just 75 points remaining this year. Tony Arbolino is in second place, with Jake Dixon in third and out of Championship contention.

In Moto3, Jaume Masia leads the Championship on the Leopard Racing Honda with three rounds to go. Ayumu Sasaki is 17 points behind after a disastrous Grand Prix of Thailand two weeks ago. Sasaki hit a slow bike, crashing out and allowing Masia’s lead to increase with a fourth-place finish.

The weather forecast looks mixed this weekend with intermittent showers across the three days. There is also a chance of thunderstorms in Sepang, with weather as unpredictable as ever at this time of year.

Rider replacements and wildcards

This weekend, Alvaro Bautista will wildcard with the Aruba.it team onboard a factory Ducati machine. It is Bautista’s first Grand Prix since 2018 before he made the switch to the WorldSBK paddock.

Since racing in WorldSBK, Bautista has experienced incredible success, battling for the World Championship in his first season. The Spaniard would finish second before moving to Honda for two seasons. In 2022, he returned to race for Ducati, winning two consecutive World Championships.

As a reward for his success, Bautista returns to the paddock in which he spent 17 years in (nine in MotoGP). His best finish on a Ducati in the premier class came in 2018 with a fourth place at Phillip Island.

Iker Lecuona will return this weekend, once again as a replacement rider for Alex Rins onboard the LCR Honda. Lecuona has acted as a replacement rider on four separate occasions this season. Alex Rins crashed at the Italian Grand Prix, breaking his leg in the Sprint, and he is still not 100% ready to return.

Classic races

The Sepang International Circuit has hosted many remarkable Grand Prix, including the infamous 2015 race. After a season-long rivalry and clear tension between Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez, there were fireworks in Sepang.

It was an intense race-long battle between the Italian and the Spaniard, which came to an end at turn 13. Content between the two riders caused Marquez to crash and Rossi to stay on the motorcycle and finish in third. Rossi was put to the back of the grid for the final round and allowed Jorge Lorenzo to win the title.

Another brilliant race came last season, with Francesco Bagnaia attempting to win his first MotoGP World Championship. Fabio Quartararo and Enea Bastianini were behind, trying to keep their Championship hopes alive.

At the beginning of the race, Jorge Martin led the field and built a comfortable gap before crashing out. This allowed the win to be decided between Bagnaia and Bastianini with a last-lap duel in store for fans. Francesco Bagnaia was able to win the race by a whisker as Bastianini only managed second.

MotoGP Schedule (GMT)

Friday

02:45 – 03:30 MotoGP Free Practice Nr. 1

07:00 – 08:00 MotoGP Practice

Saturday

02:10 – 02:40. MotoGP Free Practice Nr. 2

02:50 – 03:05 MotoGP Qualifying Nr. 1

03:15 – 03:30 MotoGP Qualifying Nr. 2

07:00 – 07:45 MotoGP Tissot Sprint

Sunday

02:40 – 02:50 MotoGP Warm Up

07:00 – 07:50 MotoGP Race

For analysis and opinions from the Grand Prix, tune into The Superbike Show every Tuesday at 8 pm.

Image credit: motogp.com