Ducati team manager Davide Tardozzi has rejected claims that MotoGP leader Marc Marquez deserved a penalty for the collision that caused Marco Bezzecchi to crash out during the Qatar MotoGP Sprint. The incident occurred when Bezzecchi attempted to overtake Marquez on the inside at Turn 1, resulting in Bezzecchi crashing, while Marquez stayed on his bike despite his airbag deploying. The FIM Stewards decided not to take any further action, a ruling that Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola openly disagreed with.
Marquez explained that he followed his usual racing line and was unaware of Bezzecchi’s position, though Sprint runner-up Fabio di Giannantonio criticized Marquez for not checking before closing the line. Tardozzi described the crash as a typical racing incident, emphasizing that Marquez wouldn’t take unnecessary risks from the outside and supported the stewards’ decision. Marquez won the Sprint and now has five opportunities remaining to clinch the 2026 MotoGP title, needing to win the Grand Prix and hope his closest rival Jorge Martin does not score.
Tardozzi expects no celebrations tonight, anticipating Bezzecchi to win the race. He explained that Marquez aims to accumulate maximum points rather than focus on a single race victory, highlighting the importance of the championship prize over individual wins. Marquez also acknowledged that his main competition is Martin, not Bezzecchi. Despite Martin racing with a fractured wrist, he recognizes the Grand Prix will be physically demanding.
Unfortunately for Ducati, Marquez will be the only Lenovo rider on the grid this evening following Pecco Bagnaia’s injury. Bagnaia suffered fractures to two bones in his right foot after being taken out by Fermin Aldeguer in the Sprint’s opening lap. However, Tardozzi remains optimistic about Bagnaia’s recovery, noting the injury is not severe, and expects him to undergo surgery in Turin soon. Bagnaia is determined to return for the Portimao race next month. The season concludes at Valencia, after which Bagnaia will join Aprilia for post-season testing.
Fan Take:
This update is crucial for racing enthusiasts as it clarifies the integrity of race incidents and stewards’ decisions in high-stakes moments, which shape championship outcomes. Bagnaia’s potential return adds an exciting element of resilience and continuity, promising fierce competition for the remainder of the season and beyond.
Source: www.crash.net
