The Barcelona-Catalonia circuit is preparing to vibrate to the rhythm of MotoGP this weekend, anticipating record attendance, notably thanks to the performance of local riders like Jorge Martin, Sergio García, and Dani Holgado. With the forecast forecast for pleasant temperatures of 25ºC and a slight chance of rain, conditions promise to be ideal for a top-notch show.
After a well-deserved rest following the French Grand Prix, George Martin arrives Catalonia at the top of ranking with 129 points, after strengthening his lead thanks to a near-perfect weekend at Le Mans. The enthusiastic Madrilenian hopes to dominate again and offer a memorable show to his supporters. “ Barcelona is a track that works well for me. Last year I shone here, and I am determined to repeat this performance in front of my audience,” says Martin, who had narrowly missed the podium in the sprint race the previous year.
At his heels, Pecco Bagnaia, which currently occupies second place with 91 point, will look to close the gap. After a mixed weekend at Le Mans, the Italian is ready to bounce back: “ Le Mans was complicated, but each race is a new chance. Barcelona could be the turning point of the season for me,” says bagnaia, visibly motivated to reverse the trend.
Marc Marquez, third with 89 points, also seems to be finding his rhythm on the Desmosedici GP23. “ Each race gives me more confidence. At home, I aim for the top,” confides Marquez, optimistic after an excellent result in France.
Enea Bastianini is under pressure to defend its place within Ducati facing fierce competition from his colleagues. “ The season is long, and every point counts. I'm ready to fight to stay in the race,” says bastianini, determined to overcome challenges.
Maverick Vinales, first non-Ducati rider in the ranking, is fifth with 81 point. He is confident for this Catalan Grand Prix, a circuit that he particularly appreciates. “ I have good memories here, and I feel stronger than ever with the Aprilia,” said Casa Particular in Viñales, aiming high for the weekend.
The young Peter Acosta, an impressive rookie, placed sixth overall and hopes to overcome the difficulties encountered in France. “ I just want to focus on every session and make the most of every opportunity, " sharing Acosta, always optimistic.
Finally, after announcing his retirement at the end of this year, Aleix Espargaró is at a crucial moment, running almost home. “ It's always special to run so close to home. Last year was amazing here, and I hope to relive such moments, " entrusts I will espargaro, eighth in the general classification.
With high stakes and intense competition, the Grand Prix of Catalonia promises to be a crucial chapter of the 2024 MotoGP season and the Friday which opened the hostilities did not counter the trend. Here is the program for this Saturday:
MotoGP, Catalonia: Barcelona timetables
Saturday May 25:
8:40 – 9:10 (30 min): Moto3, P3
9:25 – 9:55 (30 min): Moto2, P3
10:10 a.m. – 10:40 p.m. (30 min): MotoGP, FP2
10:50 a.m. – 11:05 p.m. (15 min): MotoGP, Qualifying 1
11:15 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. (15 min): MotoGP, Qualifying 2
12:15 p.m.: Moto3 Race (7 laps)
12:50 p.m. – 13:05 p.m. (15 min): Moto3, Qualifying 1
13:15 p.m. – 13:30 p.m. (15 min): Moto3, Qualifying 2
13:45 p.m. – 14:00 p.m. (15 min): Moto2, Qualifying 1
14:10 p.m. – 14:25 p.m. (15 min): Moto2, Qualifying 2
15:00 p.m.: MotoGP Sprint (12 laps)
16:10 p.m.: MotoE race 2 (7 laps)
