The accident experienced by Gresini Ducati Team rider Marc Marquez in the 2024 Austrian MotoGP sprint race turned out to be a blessing for Franceso Bagnaia. Because the Ducati Lenovo rider was able to win the sprint race because he got pressure from Marquez to be far ahead after the accident The Baby Alien – Marquez’s nickname.
Yes, Francesco Bagnaia managed to win the 2024 Austrian MotoGP Sprint. This certainty was obtained after Pecco – Francesco Bagnaia’s nickname – became the fastest at the Red Bull Ring Circuit, Spielberg, Austria on Saturday (17/8/2024).
Starting from second position, Pecco immediately appeared aggressive as soon as the 14-lap race began. He sped off and managed to overtake Jorge Martin (Ducati Pramac) in the lead position when passing through turn 1.
Shortly after, Martin was able to overtake him again. However, Martinator – Jorge Martin’s nickname – almost fell on the second lap when entering Turn 2 where the rear tire of his motorbike lifted.
The incident forced Martin to cut the track, resulting in a long lap penalty from the stewards. On the other hand, Marquez, who was trying hard to catch Bagnaia, also fell at turn 3.
As a result, The Baby Alien – Marc Marquez’s nickname – had to be satisfied with ending the sprint race without reaching the finish line. After the race, Bagnaia was amazed by the determination shown by Marquez.
“We all know Marc and his determination, he tries as he should, I would do the same if I were him,” said Bagnaia as quoted by Motosan, Sunday (18/8/2024).
According to Bagnaia, Marquez helped him keep his distance from the other racers. However, Bagnaia admitted that the fall of The Baby Alien helped him achieve victory.
“His running speed was still under control at that time, he was trying hard to catch me and it only took a moment for him to make a mistake. “We have to thank Márquez for that,” he said.