MotoGP Spain, Bagnaia for the win: can he do a Capirossi at Jerez?

The Jerez track is not traditionally favourable to the Ducati, in fact the Borgo Panigale manufacturer has won here only once, way back in 2006 with Loris Capirossi. The red bike has scored five podiums in all though, most recently last year, at the hands of Andrea Dovizioso. But Pecco Bagnaia also put in an interesting performance.

Jerez smiles on him

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The Italian was able to score his first MotoGP front row start on the Saturday, finishing third, before putting on a show come race day. Pecco looked to have the Ducati fully under control and was in good shape. Maintaining a strong pace, he got past both Maverick Viñales and his mentor Valentino Rossi to find himself up in second behind Fabio Quartararo. But then five laps from the end, Pecco was forced to retire due to a technical issue while almost three seconds ahead of the third-placed rider. A bitter pill to swallow, but he had nevertheless shown what he could do.

Nine months later

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Something he’ll try to do again this Sunday. The Bagnaia who will line up this time around is a lot more mature and aware of both his and his bike’s abilities as he chases his first win in the top class. The VR46 Riders Academy rider has gained experience over recent months, earning his first MotoGP podium (second at Misano) and deserving of promotion to the factory team. The 24-year old, currently second in the championship, is now ready to aim high and he’s already stood out from the crowd this year. Victory could well be within his reach.

Translated by Heather Watson

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