ROAD NEWS
MOTOGP TITLE TIGHT AT THE TOP
It is gloves off time in MotoGP. The last round saw both Jorge Martin and Marc Marquez have a mixed bag of results. The end result was they both scored exactly the same points for the round. Marquez won the sprint but Martin outscored him in the main event. After all that racing, the two main challengers are still separated by two points. With four rounds left, the bookies pick, based on which circuits suit which rider and bike, would have slight odds on Martin. Aprilia scored a 1-2-3-4 in the main race and three of the next four tracks play into the strengths of Aprilia. But … Marquez. From over 100 points down after missing rounds to have his beaten right shoulder operated on yet again, he has made his way back to challenge for the title. Can Marc Marquez actually pull off the comeback? Even Martin thinks he may well be able to. He won’ t make it easy for him but Jorge Martin is not shy about the respect he has for MM # 93. Riding with a weakened right shoulder, Marquez has simply adjusted his style and, slowly slowly, he seems to be regaining strength in that joint, so don’ t bet the house and car on the winner, because all bets are off. Based on talent, it is a 50:50 call. Based on sheer determination and willpower, don’ t underestimate Marquez. He is a gladiator. A small one, sure, but maaaaate …..
MORBIDELLI GOES WSBK WITH DUCATI
The Aruba. it Racing-Ducati Racing Team and Franco Morbidelli are teaming up for 2027. That seat having recently been vacated by Nicolo Bulega after his dominant and record breaking 2026 season, taking the title and heading to MotoGP next year. One of the VR46 graduates, Morbidelli showed glimpses of brilliance but things didn’ t always gel at the right time and place. He did show his talent has massive potential and that has been recognised by Ducati and his transition to WSBK is seen by many as a step sideways as WSBK is no longer seen as a second tier. Some riders click with the MotoGP rules and machines, others fit better into the WSBK scene. Hopefully, Franco is the latter and will meet the challenge well. It looks like 2027 in WSBK with the likes of Jack Miller and Franco Morbidelli arriving will be a hotly contested series. Having two of the real characters of MotoGP landing in the paddock is sure to spark plenty of competitive riders into action as they are under no illusions about how quick the‘ new lads’ will be. How close to the MotoGP lap times will the WSBK riders be? Will the change of tyre supplier in both classes be the biggest factor? We can’ t wait to see the fireworks in both series. 2027 is going to be awesome..
KIWI RIDER 79