Factory Ducati’s tire strategy backfires as Márquez escapes investigation to clinch victory — Acosta and Bastianini steal the spotlight for KTM
BRNO, CZECHIA — In a Saturday sprint race packed with chaos, controversy, and clinical overtakes, Marc Márquez delivered a commanding win at the Tissot Grand Prix of Czechia, even as he came under post-race investigation for tire pressure violations.
But after tense moments and uncertainty in the aftermath, it was confirmed: no penalties. Márquez, Alex Rins, and Ai Ogura were all found to be within the legal pressure limits, allowing the Ducati Lenovo Team rider to retain his hard-fought victory in a race where tire management became the unexpected headline.
Tire Pressure Turmoil: Ducati’s Double-Edged Sword
The race saw contrasting fortunes for Ducati’s factory squad. While Márquez triumphed after expertly managing his stint, Francesco Bagnaia suffered a dramatic mid-race drop in pace. After a scorching start that saw him challenge for the lead, Bagnaia faded rapidly in the second half, ultimately finishing seventh, bruised and visibly frustrated in the garage.
Insiders suggest Bagnaia was forced to back off to avoid breaching tire pressure regulations, a move that cost him dearly in track position and rhythm. His case mirrored several similar episodes this season, highlighting just how critical tire pressures have become under MotoGP’s evolving technical rules.
KTM Rejoices: Acosta and Bastianini Shine
Behind Márquez, it was a dream day for KTM. Pedro Acosta, riding for the factory Red Bull KTM team, briefly took the lead mid-race and held off pressure before Márquez reclaimed control. Nevertheless, the rookie continues to prove he’s already podium material in MotoGP’s top class.
Even more impressive was the performance from Enea Bastianini, who battled recent food poisoning to storm the podium for Tech3 KTM, clinching third with a gritty ride that showcased both fitness and finesse.
A Chaotic Start: Crashes and Contact
The Sprint began with high tension and immediate drama. The field was split on tire choice, with a handful of riders opting for double medium compounds, while others gambled on soft rears in rapidly evolving conditions.
At Turn 2, disaster struck: Augusto Fernandez high-sided and collided with Takaaki Nakagami, both riders tumbling out violently into the gravel. Moments later, Marco Bezzecchi attempted a bold overtake on Fabio Quartararo, resulting in contact. While both remained upright, Bezzecchi lost significant ground.
Elsewhere, Fabio Di Giannantonio added his name to the crash list, exiting the race prematurely after a slide-off just before the final third.
How It Unfolded: Key Moments in the Brno Sprint
- Start: Márquez leads after explosive getaway. Bagnaia follows, then Quartararo, Acosta, and Bezzecchi.
- Lap 4-6: Bagnaia suddenly drops off pace. Acosta and Bastianini surge.
- Lap 8: Márquez loses the lead momentarily to Acosta.
- Final Laps: Márquez claws back to the front, controls pressure, and takes the win.
- Post-Race: Under investigation for tire pressure — but cleared alongside Rins and Ogura.
Sprint Race Result – Top 10 (Unofficial)
- Marc Márquez (Ducati Lenovo Team)
- Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing)
- Enea Bastianini (Tech3 KTM Factory Racing)
- Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP)
- Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing)
- Alex Rins (Pramac Yamaha)
- Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team)
- Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP)
- Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR)
- Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol)
What’s Next?
With tire pressure once again shaping results and riders walking a fine line between performance and penalty, the stage is set for a thrilling Sunday showdown at Brno. Márquez may have won today, but the battle is far from over.
Can Bagnaia bounce back? Will KTM turn their Sprint success into a Grand Prix victory? And can Márquez maintain momentum while staying on the right side of regulation?
One thing is certain — the Brno circuit has delivered MotoGP drama at its finest. And Sunday promises even more.
