MotoGP Sunday Jerez What a Race

Clash of the titans: Bagnaia defeats Marquez in all-time classic at Jerez

The Italian makes a huge statement at Jerez, locking horns with Marquez as Martin crashes out and sees his lead slashed to just 17 points

In a thrilling showdown at the Gran Premio Estrella Galicia 0,0 de España, Francesco Bagnaia of the Ducati Lenovo Team delivered a masterclass performance at Jerez, reaffirming his status as a force to be reckoned with in MotoGP™. Despite facing adversity in the previous races, Bagnaia’s stellar victory marked a significant turnaround, bringing him within striking distance of Championship leader Jorge Martin of Prima Pramac Racing, who unfortunately crashed out of contention.

The race witnessed a titanic battle between Bagnaia and hometown favorite Marc Marquez of Gresini Racing MotoGP™, resulting in one of Jerez’s most memorable encounters. Bagnaia’s triumph in front of an electric crowd underscored his determination and skill on the track, setting the stage for a thrilling Championship battle.

As the race commenced, Marquez took an early lead, closely pursued by Martin and Bagnaia. However, Bagnaia’s audacious overtaking maneuvers propelled him into contention, ultimately seizing the lead from Marquez with Martin in close pursuit.

The race took a dramatic turn when Martin’s crash altered the Championship dynamics, leaving Bagnaia and Marquez to battle it out for supremacy. With Marquez relentlessly chasing Bagnaia, the two riders engaged in a gripping duel, exchanging positions in a high-stakes showdown.

Despite Marquez’s valiant efforts to overtake, Bagnaia held firm, fending off his rival’s advances to clinch a hard-fought victory. The narrow margin of 0.372 seconds underscored the intensity of the battle and Bagnaia’s resilience under pressure.

The race also saw Marco Bezzecchi of Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team making a triumphant return to the podium, further adding to the excitement of the event. Behind the frontrunners, a fierce midfield battle unfolded, with riders vying for crucial points in the Championship standings.

As the Spanish Grand Prix drew to a close, it left an indelible mark on MotoGP™ history, with unforgettable moments of triumph and defeat. With the next race set to take place at Le Mans, the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the world’s most exciting sport.

RESULT

All-time record: nearly 300,000 fans make history at the Spanish GP!

The Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto welcomes 296,741 fans across the event, setting a new all-time attendance record

The Gran Premio Estrella Galicia 0,0 de España has etched its name in MotoGP™ history books with a staggering attendance record. Over the weekend, a colossal wave of nearly 300,000 fans flooded through the gates of the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto, setting a new milestone as the highest attended event in MotoGP™ history.

Surpassing the previous record set at the 2023 French GP, where 278,805 spectators gathered to celebrate the sport’s 1000th milestone, the 2024 Spanish GP witnessed an unparalleled turnout of 296,741 enthusiasts. Amidst this historic gathering, fans were treated to an unforgettable showcase of racing prowess, cementing the event as a timeless classic.

Reflecting on this monumental achievement, Carmelo Ezpeleta, the CEO of MotoGP™ rights holder Dorna Sports, expressed admiration for the enduring passion and fervor exhibited by fans. He lauded the electric atmosphere and unwavering support that reverberated through the city of Jerez, commending the host city and region of Andalucia for their exceptional hospitality.

Ezpeleta emphasized MotoGP™’s remarkable season both on and off the track, with the sport’s global appeal reaching unprecedented heights. He attributed this success to the collective efforts of promoters, organizers, and fans worldwide, underscoring MotoGP™’s commitment to continual growth and expansion.

As MotoGP™ prepares to embark on its next chapter at the historic Le Mans circuit, Ezpeleta extended his gratitude to fans, both present at the circuit and tuning in from across the globe. With anticipation building for the Michelin® Grand Prix de France from May 10th to 12th, MotoGP™ stands poised to deliver yet another thrilling spectacle, fueled by the unwavering passion of its devoted fanbase.

Moto 2 Aldeguer reigns Jerez, Roberts second to take the Championship lead

Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) entered the Moto2™ season as a top contender, backed by his impressive performance in the previous year and a solid Ducati contract for 2025. However, his initial races were plagued by misfortune until he turned the tide at Jerez, his home circuit, in spectacular fashion. Engaged in a thrilling battle with Manuel Gonzalez (QJMotor Gresini Moto2™) early on, Aldeguer eventually asserted his dominance, clinching victory with style. Meanwhile, Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing) showcased a remarkable surge through the ranks, ultimately securing second place and propelling himself to the top of the Championship standings with 69 points—a feat not seen since Nicky Hayden’s glory in 2006.

The race commenced with Gonzalez seizing the lead, setting an impressive pace and fending off Aldeguer’s advances in the initial laps. Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI), the Americas GP victor, also displayed strong form, aiming to maintain his Championship lead. However, the opening laps saw drama further down the grid as Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) collided with Zonta Van Den Goorbergh (RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP), resulting in a penalty for the latter.

As the race progressed, Aldeguer and Gonzalez engaged in a captivating battle, exchanging daring overtakes and strategic maneuvers. Aldeguer eventually gained the upper hand, building a substantial lead in the later stages. Meanwhile, Roberts showcased remarkable pace, setting the fastest lap and executing a bold move to secure third place from Garcia.

In the final lap, Aldeguer savored the moment, celebrating with the crowd as he cruised to victory. However, the fight for second intensified, with Roberts mounting a relentless charge against Gonzalez, ultimately clinching the runner-up position.

Further down the order, Garcia maintained fourth place, while Albert Arenas (QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™) secured a commendable fifth position. Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI) delivered a solid performance to claim sixth place, ahead of Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) in seventh. Jeremey Alcoba (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team) and Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo) battled for eighth and ninth positions respectively, with Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) rounding out the top ten.

The race witnessed several casualties, with Turn 13 proving challenging for riders such as Bo Bendsneyder (Pertamina Mandalika GAS UP Team) and Xavier Artigas (KLINT Forward Factory Team). Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) and Jake Dixon (CFMoto Aspar Team) also joined the list of retirements.

As the Championship narrative takes an intriguing turn, all eyes are on the upcoming French GP at Le Mans. With Aldeguer eager to reclaim the top spot from Roberts, the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in Moto2™. Don’t miss the action!

RESULT

Moto 3 Veijer puts in a stunner for Spanish GP glory

Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) returned to the pinnacle of the podium with a flawless performance at the Gran Premio Estrella Galicia 0,0 de España, securing his second Grand Prix victory in thrilling fashion. In a nail-biting finale, the Dutch rider executed a perfect final lap to fend off David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports), clinching victory by a razor-thin margin of 0.045 seconds. Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) completed the podium on home soil, overcoming a shocking early crash by polesitter David Alonso (CFMoto Gaviota Aspar Team), who remounted after the incident.

Muñoz initially seized the lead, engaging in a fierce battle with Alonso before eventually asserting his dominance. However, Alonso’s hopes were dashed as he slid off at the final corner on Lap 1, allowing Muñoz to lead the charge. Veijer wasted no time in launching his attack, swiftly maneuvering past Muñoz to take control of the race. The leading group comprised Veijer, Muñoz, Ortola, Joel Esteban (CFMoto Gaviota Aspar Team), Ryusei Yamanaka (MT Helmets – MSI), and Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports), with Dani Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) making a determined comeback from P18 on the grid.

Meanwhile, Alonso embarked on a spirited fightback, gradually climbing up the ranks and breaking into the points-scoring positions. At the front, the battle intensified into a four-rider showdown, with Veijer, Muñoz, and Ortola vying for victory. On the final lap, Veijer held firm against Muñoz’s relentless pressure, showcasing remarkable pace through the fast corners to secure the win by a hair’s breadth.

Yamanaka secured a lonely fourth place, matching his best GP result to date, while Kelso emerged victorious in a fierce group battle for fifth. Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing), Championship leader Holgado, Nicola Carraro (LEVELUP – MTA), and Stefano Nepa (LEVELUP – MTA) rounded out the top positions, with rookie Esteban enduring last corner heartbreak as he crashed out unassisted.

Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing) claimed the final spot in the top ten, as Alonso’s valiant comeback saw him finish in P11. With Holgado narrowing the gap to Alonso by six points and Veijer ascending to third in the standings, the stage is set for an electrifying showdown at Le Mans. Will Veijer continue his ascent? Tune in two weeks from now to witness the thrilling conclusion!

RESULT

Official MotoGP Press Release