Defending World Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) has hit out at his on track rivals, labelling their tactics “ridiculous” during Q2 at the British GP. While in search of a lap that would secure him pole position, a number of riders were seen waiting on track, seemingly in a bid to use the #1 as a reference to find a fast lap themselves.
Speaking to MotoGP™ reporter Jack Appleyard in Parc Ferme after the session, the Italian didn’t mince his words: “I have to say, about the qualifying situation right now, it is quite ridiculous. Considering 10 MotoGP riders can’t go slow like this to follow other riders. We are at the top of our sport. If we are here, it is because we can do things alone and it’s quite ridiculous the situation. Still, until anyone says anything, it will continue like this."
It seemed the comments were directed towards a variety of riders, with the likes of future teammate Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), VR46 duo Marco Bezzecchi and Fabio Di Giannantonio tailing the Italian closely on his final run, before Bagnaia was forced to roll out his late time attack. A sticker from the Ducati rider's helmet came undone, and blocked his line of vision in a bizarre moment, and meant he couldn't improve his time.
Ultimately, Bagnaia had to settle for second on the grid behind Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing), the reigning Champion admitted his frustrations at not securing pole due to an unusual incident, but praised his Aprilia rival's record-breaking effort.
“Aleix did an amazing Sector 4 and has been fast all weekend and we know Aprilia at this track are very fast.
“We had the chance to do a good first attempt, but then I lost the sponsor banner on the helmet and it went in front of the eyes. I’m very angry about that because the person who manages these things needs to be more precise. Losing the possibility to do a better result in qualifying for something like this is not good.”
The action is far from over on Saturday, with MotoGP™ riders back on track at 15:00 local time (UTC +1) for the British Tissot Sprint. Will Bagnaia be able to get one over on his rivals and extend his Championship lead? Tune in to find out!