-Jorge Martin finishes second
-Enea Bastianini finishes third
-Championship to be decided in the last round
The 2024 MotoGP Malaysian Grand Prix will down in history books as one of the most thrilling ever. The World Championship title contenders Pecco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin fought tooth and nail for the lead, putting up a classic show for the fans.
Pecco supremacy
Ducati Lenovo Factory Team’s Pecco Bagnaia had announced before the race on Sunday that he would fight hard and try to win. He stuck to his word as he put up a superb performance in the race and fended off the numerous challenges by Jorge Martin.
Soon after the start of the race, Pecco and Martin began trading places, lap after lap. Within a span of four to five laps, the duo were clear of the field, despite being engaged in battle. Marc Marquez was the only one who was close to the battling duo and had the best seat in the house to watch the fight.
There were times when Pecco and Martin nearly touched as one tried to out brake or outcorner the other. Nevertheless, it was hard and fair racing.
Post half race distance, Pecco began pulling away from Martin who was trying to keep in touch but wasn’t taking any unnecessary risks. At one point, he was getting close but made a slight error on Turn 9 and almost lost the front. Martin shook his head, regained composure and decided to take it easy till the chequered flag, crossing the finish line in P2. Enea Basitanini, on the second factory Ducati, was third. Meanwhile, Pecco joined an elite club by winning 10 races this season. The other riders who’ve achieved this feat include Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez.
Championship decider in the final round
The last round of the 2024 MotoGP World Championship is likely to be held at the Circuit De Catalunya in Barcelona, Spain. The traditional venue, Valencia has been cancelled following the devastating floods that hit the area a few days ago.
With only a few points separating Martin and Bagnaia, the Championship could be decided at the Saturday Sprint Race, if Martin wins. Or else, it’ll go down to the last race of the season in a couple of weeks.