This Malaysian Grand Prix could well go down in MotoGP history. Indeed, Pramac Ducati rider Jorge Martin is close to an unprecedented world title as a privateer. Thanks to his sprint victory this Saturday and the fall of his rival Pecco Bagnaia, the Spaniard has a comfortable lead in the championship. But can he already be crowned this Sunday in Sepang?
The 2024 MotoGP season reaches its climax with a first match point for Jorge Martin, who could become world champion as early as this Malaysian Grand PrixThe dynamics took a decisive turn during the last Sprint, where Martin, the championship leader, celebrated a resounding victory, while his rival Pecco Bagnaia saw his title dreams dashed after a devastating fall.
With 465 points to his credit, Martin managed to widen the gap with bagnaia, who, after finishing the race at zero, remains stuck at 436 points. This means that George Martin now holds a lead of 29 point, and after the main race in Sepang, there is only 37 points to be awarded in the seasonThis context offers the Pramac rider a golden opportunity to secure his first world title this Sunday.
So that Martin can celebrate, he must however reap at least nine points more than Bagnaia during this Grand Prix. If bagnaia finishes ahead Martin, the decision will be postponed until the season finale. But if the Madrid player beats his rival, there are several scenarios that could allow him to win the title in Sepang.
Jorge Martin could show off his World Champion status at Aprilia
Here are the key scenarios to watch:
- Martín finishes 1st: If Martín wins the race and Bagnaia finishes 3rd or lower, Martín is crowned champion.
- Martín finishes 2nd: A podium for Martín, combined with a 5th or worse position for Bagnaia, will be enough to secure the title.
- Martin finishes 3rde : If Martín gets on the podium and Bagnaia finishes 6th or lower, the title will be his.
- Martín finishes 4th: In this case, Bagnaia must finish at least 7th for Martín to be crowned champion.
- Martín finishes 5th: Martín must then ensure that Bagnaia finishes 8th or beyond.
- Martín finishes 6th: This requires Bagnaia to finish 9th or worse.
- Martín finishes 7th: This is the minimum required for Martín to win the title, provided Bagnaia finishes 10th or outside the points.
The tension is palpable as Martin is preparing to seize this historic opportunity. Much depends on its performance on the Sepang track and the ability of bagnaia to catch up after a tough weekend. All eyes will be on this crucial duel. The road to the title has never been so exciting! And at Aprilia, we can prepare to decorate our RS-GP 2025 with a statutory number 1…
MotoGP, Malaysia D2: Starting Grid
Sprint Result:
Championship:
