Jorge Martin wins the Tissot Sprint Race at MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix Of Qatar 2024
From the high-stakes qualifying rounds of each MotoGP™ category to the thrilling Tissot Sprint race, the second day of the MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar 2024 delivered the ultimate racing action for spectators.
The schedule was packed with riders competing to secure points on the leaderboard as well as determine their grid position in the upcoming races. Starting with practice and qualifying rounds for MotoGPTM, Moto2TM and Moto3TM, the riders competed in the second edition of Tissot Sprint race where the race is half the distance and double the excitement.
“It is an honor to be acknowledged as the Best Grand Prix of 2023, and our team is dedicated to going beyond expectations to ensure an unforgettable experience for all. The excitement is building once again at MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar 2024 as we are witnessing the epitome of motorsport excellence right here at Lusail International Circuit. We are looking forward to the upcoming races and wishing the best of luck to all teams and riders,” said Amro Al-Hamad, Executive Director of QMMF and CEO of Lusail International Circuit.
The Sprint Race had fans on the edge of their seats with its intense competition. Jorge Martin from Pramac Ducati secured the top spot (P1) with a total time of 20 minutes '41.287 seconds, marking his second Sprint victory at Lusail International Circuit. Joining Martin on the podium, Brad Binder from Red Bull KTM claimed P2 with 20 minutes 41.835 seconds, while Aleix Espargaro from Aprilia Racing took P3 with a total time of 20 minutes 42.016 seconds. This thrilling event proved to be a spectacular showcase of skill and determination as riders pushed themselves and their bikes to the limit.
Additionally, the qualifying rounds of MotoGPTM determined the grid position for the final race day, starting first is Jorge Martin from Prima Pramac Racing followed by Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) and Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team).
In the exhilarating Moto2™ qualification rounds, Spanish rider Aron Canet from Fantic Racing clinched the top spot in a tight competition, narrowly coming ahead of Alonso Lopez from Sync SpeedUp. Canet set a lap time of 1 minute 56.788 seconds, just a fraction ahead of Lopez's time of 1 minute 56.890 seconds. Albert Arenas from QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2 finished third with an impressive lap time of 1 minute 57.025 seconds.
In the Moto3™ qualification rounds, riders engaged in a closely contested battle. Daniel Holgado from Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 emerged as the leader, clocking an impressive lap time of 2 minutes 02.276 seconds. Following closely behind, Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets - MSI) secured the second position with 2 minutes 02.541 seconds, with Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) finishing third with a tight margin at 2 minute 02.596 seconds.
In the spirit of bringing promising young talent in motorsport to the forefront, spectators watched the inaugural race of the Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup, where riders showcased their skills with remarkable speed and dedication. Among the standout performers was Zen Mitani from Japan, who not only secured the top position (P1) but also delivered the fastest lap of the race, clocking in at an impressive 2 minutes 11.006 seconds. Joining Mitani on the podium were fellow Japanese riders Riichi Takahira and Seiryu Ikegami, who claimed P2 and P3, respectively.
Spectators were also treated to the thrilling action of the Qatar-based championships, Qatar Supersport 300 and Qatar Superstock 600. In the Qatar Supersport 300 category, Italian rider Edoardo Pia claimed the top spot with a best lap recorded at 2 minutes 23.233 seconds. Following closely behind in P2 was Aaron Robinson from Great Britain, who also delivered the fastest lap of the race, clocking in at an impressive 2 minutes 23.071 seconds. Finally, Mahmoud Elbanna from Egypt secured P3 with a lap time of 2 minutes 24.857 seconds.
In the Qatar Superstock 600 category, remarkable Qatari talent shone through as Abdulla Al Qubaisi claimed the lead with a total time of 21 minutes 10.506 seconds. Following closely in P2, Saeed Al Sulaiti clocked a total time of 21 minutes 10.671 seconds, with Marshel Al Naimi trailing behind at 21 minutes 31.318 seconds. Notably, Al Naimi also recorded the fastest lap of the race at 2 minutes 05.529 seconds.
As the vibrant heart of the event, the Fan Zone buzzed with excitement, offering spectators a range of engaging activities and experiences. Amidst the lively atmosphere, the spectators got the chance to capture memorable moments with their favorite Moto2TM and Moto3TM rider during the Hero Walk.
The upcoming races will determine the top riders and who takes home the Grand Prix title. Fans are eagerly waiting for the action at the MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar 2024.