The two riders duelling for the MotoGP title, leader Francesco Bagnaia and his closest pursuer Jorge Martin, both on Friday made the cut for Qatar Grand Prix second qualifying round.
Reigning champion Bagnaia, of Ducati, leads Martin, of the Italian manufacturer's satellite team Pramac, by 14 points with 37 at stake on the Lusail circuit for this weekend's penultimate race.
Only 14 points separate them and there are still 74 points to play for! ⚔
— MotoGP™🏁 (@MotoGP) November 12, 2023
It's time to choose your side in the #PECCOvsMARTIN battle for the #MotoGP title! 🔴 🏆 🟣#TeamPECCO | #TeamMARTIN pic.twitter.com/sA8dX5H8nR
Spaniard Martin – who is chasing his first world crown – has gradually reeled in his Italian rival over the second half of the 20-event season.
Both riders qualified late in the evening session and will be able to sit out Saturday's first qualifying round before the second session in the afternoon.
Raul Fernandez of Aprilia, Fabio Di Giannantonio of Ducati-Gresini and Maverick Vinales of Aprilia took the first three spots.
Body language never lies ⚠️@88jorgemartin did not really keep his cool throughout a tough #MotoGP Practice 😤#QatarGP 🇶🇦 pic.twitter.com/ESlr9DsGKO
— MotoGP™🏁 (@MotoGP) November 17, 2023