Championship leader Jorge Martin is seeking advice from his close friend and rival Francesco Bagnaia on how to secure his first title at this weekend’s Grand Prix of Barcelona. Martin holds a 24-point lead over Bagnaia, a reversal of last season’s situation when Bagnaia successfully defended a 21-point advantage.
Martin can clinch the title with a victory in Saturday’s sprint race, but any mistakes could allow Bagnaia to snatch it away. “Maybe ‘Pecco’ (Bagnaia) can give me advice because he was like this last year,” Martin said.
Martin has adopted a different approach this season, focusing on riding at his best rather than dwelling on the title. “I am not thinking about it. I didn’t think about it all season so I want to focus on what I can control,” he said.
Despite Bagnaia’s impressive 10 grand prix wins this season, Martin’s consistency has kept him in contention. “I feel much more free because I just have to do what I can do, enjoy the weekend and try to win,” Martin said.
Bagnaia acknowledges the challenge but remains determined. “You never know,” he said. “You can’t escape from pressure. It’s difficult to live with but we are racers and we have to do the best as possible.”
The race was originally scheduled for Valencia but was moved to Barcelona due to devastating floods in the region. It has been dubbed the Solidarity GP to show support for the affected communities.
