Aprilia Takes Center Stage with Historic Ducati-Free MotoGP Sprint Podium
In a remarkable display during the Australian Grand Prix MotoGP sprint race at Phillip Island, Aprilia secured an unprecedented dominance. The podium featured no Ducati riders, marking a historic first since the sprint format’s introduction in 2023.
Race Overview
Marco Bezzecchi, starting from second place, took victory in the Aprilia-dominated sprint. He managed to overtake teammate Raul Fernandez after an intense race, despite hitting a bird during the warm-up lap, which left part of it lodged in his fairing throughout the race.
Race Highlights
- Bezzecchi’s Strategy: After starting second, he quickly closed in on the leaders and moved ahead of Fernandez on lap 10.
- Fernandez’s Performance: He initially maintained the lead but couldn’t fend off Bezzecchi’s late race charge.
- Third Place Battle: Pedro Acosta of KTM clinched third place after a thrilling final lap, overtaking Jack Miller and Alex Marquez.
Key Results
| Position | Rider | Team | Time/Gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marco Bezzecchi | Aprilia | – |
| 2 | Raul Fernandez | Trackhouse Aprilia | +3.149s |
| 3 | Pedro Acosta | KTM | +5.310s |
| 4 | Jack Miller | Pramac Yamaha | +5.376s |
| 5 | Fabio Di Giannantonio | VR46 Ducati | +5.416s |
| 6 | Alex Marquez | Gresini Ducati | +6.109s |
| 7 | Fabio Quartararo | Yamaha | +8.706s |
| 8 | Luca Marini | Honda | +8.938s |
| 9 | Pol Espargaro | Tech3 KTM | +9.252s |
| 10 | Enea Bastianini | Tech3 KTM | +9.752s |
Ducati’s Disappointing Performance
For the first time, Ducati failed to secure a podium spot in the sprint race. Their top riders, such as Pecco Bagnaia and Michele Pirro, struggled significantly, with Bagnaia falling from 12th to near the back of the pack.
Crashes and Incidents
The race also saw incidents for Brad Binder and Fermin Aldeguer. Binder, after a promising start, experienced a crash that ended his race prematurely. Aldeguer similarly faced difficulties, ultimately failing to finish.
This event underscores Aprilia’s growing strength in MotoGP, as they continue to build on their recent successes amidst challenges faced by rivals like Ducati. The next race will be crucial for all contenders as the season progresses.
