LUSAIL: Marco Bezzecchi delivered a dominant performance at Lusail International Circuit, leading from start to finish to claim victory at the Qatar Grand Prix.
Marc Marquez finished second, missing the opportunity to secure his eighth premier-class world title. The Ducati rider needed a victory, while championship rival Jorge Martin had to finish outside the points. However, Martin secured seventh place, keeping the title race alive.
Marquez now holds a 60-point advantage over Martin, with two rounds remaining. Bezzecchi sits third, 74 points behind the championship leader.
The title battle will continue at the next round in Portimao, Portugal.
Bezzecchi Holds Off Marquez as Aprilia Make Early Charge
Marco Bezzecchi made a perfect start from pole position at the Qatar Grand Prix, successfully defending his lead when Marc Marquez attempted an inside overtake at Turn One.
Marquez soon came under pressure from Aprilia-powered rivals, with Trackhouse rider Raul Fernandez overtaking him to move into second place and drop the Ducati rider to third.
By the second lap, Bezzecchi and Fernandez had opened a gap of more than one second over Marquez, who opted for a cautious approach. Meanwhile, championship rival Jorge Martin was running ninth.
As the race progressed, Pedro Acosta overtook Marquez to claim third position, moving ahead of his future Ducati teammate.
