MotoGP™ recap: Malaysia – then there were two

With fantastic comeback rides to P1 and P3 in Sepang, Bagnaia and Quartararo set up a title decider in Valencia

After the drama of Australia, the MotoGP™ paddock landed in Sepang knowing that Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) had the chance to be crowned 2022 World Champion. At this stage, only two men could mathematically stop Pecco’s title dreams: Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) and Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing).

Francesco Bagnaia, Ducati Lenovo Team, PETRONAS Grand Prix of Malaysia

A tricky qualifying saw Bagnaia and Quartararo – nursing a broken finger – start from P9 and P12. However, by Turn 1, Pecco was up to second, with Quartararo up to P6. It soon became Bagnaia vs Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) at the front as Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) crashed out of the lead. Quartararo, meanwhile, had climbed up to P3.

 

25 points for Pecco played 16 for Quartararo for much of the race – not enough for the title to be secured. Bastianini made life difficult for his 2023 teammate, but Bagnaia produced a cool, calm and collected ride to eventually claim a vital win. Quartararo’s efforts saw him take home a third place, with the Frenchman knowing he could have done nothing more.

With Aleix Espargaro having a disappointing weekend, the final title showdown in Valencia was set up between Bagnaia and Quartararo. 

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