If Saturday’s action is anything to go by, Malaysia is in for a thriller of a race. Álex Márquez comes into the weekend on the brink of sealing a Márquez one-two in the championship, having topped February’s pre-season test at Sepang. But as qualifying unfolds, it’s Francesco Bagnaia who steals the spotlight for this Qualifying session.
Qualifying 1
With only two spots up for grabs, all eyes are on Bagnaia and Bezzecchi as the final minutes approach. Both riders needed something special — and Fermín Aldeguer provided it.
A Stunning Lap Before A Sudden Crash
The rookie lights up all four sectors in red, posting a blistering lap that edges Bagnaia by 0.042s. Seconds later, disaster hits – Aldeguer tucks the front at Turn 4, crashing out while still topping the timesheets. With yellow flags out, his rivals are forced to roll off, leaving Aldeguer and Bagnaia safely through to Q2.
Attempting to bring his battered Ducati back to the garage, Aldeguer loses control while riding into the paddock and topples over again — narrowly missing Gresini team manager Michele Masini as the bike smacks into the wall. This leaves the bike in worser condition than before, and Aldeguer’s Q2 hopes uncertain despite a great showing.
Behind them, Luca Marini and Bezzecchi narrowly missed the cut with the appearance of the yellow flags, meaning the two Italians will start 13th and 14th on Sunday – a blow for the two riders who did great in the earlier practice session.
Qualifying 2
Despite the setback of fighting through the first session, Francesco Bagnaia has delivered when it matters most. Biding his time, waiting for clear track and fresh rubber, Bagnaia has just unleashed a masterclass. His 1:57:001 lap puts him on pole, snatching it away from Fabio Quartararo by just 0.194s.
As the final minute ticks down, Álex Márquez mounts a late charge to slot into second, while Morbidelli produces a stellar final lap to complete an all-Ducati front row. Quartararo, who had looked set for pole until the last sector, was forced to settle for fourth, just ahead of Acosta and Joan Mir.
Sepang’s showdown promises to be packed with tension, talent, and drama – we can’t wait to see how it unfolds.