The results of MotoGP Sprint in Austria: Pecco Bagnaia CLAIMS victory in the Saturday race! Martin faces a long lap penalty, while both Marquez brothers retire
A triumphant performance by Pecco Bagnaia! The Chivasso rider dominated the Sprint at the Austrian Grand Prix, finishing 4 seconds ahead of the second place in the 11-lap race. Jorge Martin, who started from pole position, had to settle for second after serving a long lap penalty, while Aleix Espargarò secured third place.
The race saw the early retirement of both Marquez brothers: Alex Marquez was out of the race after just two corners, while Marc Marquez crashed in turn 3 while holding second place.
Race Recap
THE START – At the beginning, Pecco Bagnaia made a strong start, moving ahead of Martin, who quickly responded. The two engaged in an adrenaline-filled duel from the second corner, with Marc Marquez watching intently. After two intense laps, Martin (in first) went wide, allowing Bagnaia to take the lead. The stewards deemed it insufficient, and Martin was given a long lap penalty. Alex Marquez fell in turn 2.
Martin’s “punitive” long lap in turn 1 caused him to lose position to Marquez, shifting the race lead to the two future Ducati Factory riders, followed by Martin and Espargarò. Jack Miller and Franco Morbidelli also performed well, holding fifth and sixth places, respectively. Morbidelli, however, was involved in a clash with Bastianini at turn 1, losing a position.
A dramatic turn of events on lap 10: Marc Marquez crashes! The Spaniard made an error in turn 3, losing the front end while comfortably in second place. His Ducati Gresini restarted, but the eight-time champion was forced to retire. Espargarò moved up to the podium spots, having distanced himself from Miller (4th), who was eventually overtaken by Bastianini.
Despite the challenges from the contenders, Bagnaia remained unchallenged, securing a well-deserved victory, followed by Martin and Espargarò.
Photo: Gresini Racing, Ducati Corse
