MotoGP returns to Australia and the iconic Phillip Island circuit. With four race weekends left in the 2024 season, the intense World Championship battle between Pecco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin is reaching its climax. The reigning Italian world champion is still chasing, having closed the gap to just 10 points behind the Spanish rider, who currently leads the standings after the Japanese Grand Prix.
The first crucial points will be up for grabs in the usual Saturday Sprint Race. The riders will be on track from late night to early morning Italian time between Saturday and Sunday: the Sprint Race is scheduled for 6:00 AM Italian time, while Sunday’s main race will take place at 5:00 AM. Moto3 kicks off at 2:00 AM, followed by Moto2 at 3:15 AM. It’s a packed lead-up to the most anticipated showdown, Sunday’s race between Martin and Bagnaia.
As mentioned, Bagnaia starts 10 points behind Martin with four races and just as many Sprint Races left in the season. After Phillip Island, the championship will move to Thailand, then to Malaysia, before concluding in Europe with the Valencia Grand Prix.
There are still plenty of points up for grabs, but the title fight now seems to be primarily between Martin and Bagnaia. Bastianini and Marc Marquez trail far behind, with 79 and 81 points, respectively, separating them from the championship leader. However, at Phillip Island, Marquez could once again emerge as a contender for victory, thanks to the “left-hand” curves that suit the Spaniard and the unpredictable weather conditions. The former Honda star could play a decisive role in the World Championship duel between Martin and Bagnaia.