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Japan

The MotoGP World Championship enters a crucial weekend with the Japanese Grand Prix at the Motegi circuit, marking the second stop on the Asian tour. As the season draws to a close, all eyes are on Ducati riders Jorge Martín and Pecco Bagnaia, who currently dominate the standings. The title fight increasingly seems to be an internal affair for Ducati, but there are a number of challenges, including those posed by Japan’s unpredictable weather, that could shake up the hierarchy.

Motegi is an emblematic circuit, particularly for Marc Marquez, who has had many successes there with Honda. However, this year, the situation is different. Marquez, still in the transition phase with its new Ducati, finds himself in an uncertain position. Last season, the race was held in the rain, limiting its strategic scope. With unpredictable weather forecasts for this weekend, the possibility of another race in the rain could still work in the Spanish driver's favor. Similarly, Enea Bastianini, who needs to catch up, absolutely must perform this weekend to avoid being completely left behind in the title race.

For Japanese manufacturers, Honda et Yamaha , who were once the undisputed leaders of MotoGP, the picture is much bleaker. With disappointing results and recent concessions made in an attempt to return to the top, these two local brands have yet to prove they can compete with the best. Expectations are low for this round, especially with the performance of their star riders in decline. Yamaha hopes, however, that recent chassis developments, particularly those tested by fabio quartararo, will bear fruit.

Japan, home to a thrilling MotoGP

For other contenders, like KTM et Aprilia, the outline of Motegi does not seem to be working in their favor, but surprises are never excluded in MotoGP. Peter Acosta, the young hope of KTM, could take advantage of mistakes by his opponents to create a sensation. In addition, with the absence of Miguel Oliveira Following his injury, the cards are being reshuffled for several teams.

Le Japanese Grand Prix will also be an endurance test for European fans, with schedules adapted to the Asian zone. The weather remains one of the big question marks of the weekend, with uncertain forecasts, particularly concerning rain, which could well redefine strategies and hopes of victory.

In short, the Japan will be decisive in understanding who will continue the fight for the world title until Valencia. Martin et bagnaia, this Grand Prix represents a new battle to establish their dominance, while other drivers, such as Marquez et bastianini, must absolutely show themselves in their best light to stay in the race for the championship. An enticing scenario that should be followed from this first day on Friday. Here is the program:

2024 MotoGP Japanese Grand Prix Schedule

Friday October 04

Tests 1 Moto3 02:00-02:35

Tests 1 Moto2 02:50-03:30

MotoGP Free Practice 1 03:45-04:30

Moto3 Tests 2 06:15-06:50

Moto2 Tests 2 07:05-07:45

MotoGP Tests 08:00-09:00

 

 

All articles on Pilots: Francesco Bagnaia, Jorge Martin

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