Dorna is poised to issue a formal announcement confirming that the iconic Circuit de Barcelona will take over as the finale venue for the 2024 MotoGP season, following devastating flooding that has tragically affected numerous lives and properties. Informal communications from MotoGP suggest that the change is nearly official, pending only the final nod from government authorities before the Barcelona race is locked in.
Initially, the Lusail Circuit in Qatar was a front-runner for the season’s concluding event, especially after it became clear that Valencia would not be able to hold the race. However, reports indicate that teams competing in both Moto2 and Moto3 raised significant concerns about the increased travel expenses associated with holding the finale in Qatar, prompting Dorna to pivot to Barcelona—a location deemed to be a more practical choice under the circumstances, as reported by The Race.
With just two weeks remaining until the grand finale, logistical preparations are reportedly in full swing, with teams receiving paddock passes and bike identification stickers as part of the organizational framework. The highly anticipated final round is set to take place from November 15-17. However, there is still uncertainty regarding whether the post-season test will also occur at this venue.
The choice of Barcelona as the season finale is particularly advantageous for Francesco Bagnaia, given that the Circuit de Catalunya-Barcelona has been a stage for his exceptional performances in the past. The factory Ducati rider currently trails championship leader Jorge Martin by 24 points after clinching victory at the recent Malaysian Grand Prix, positioning him for a thrilling showdown.
The Italian rider remains optimistic about his slim chances of clinching the championship title in Barcelona. Addressing the media, Bagnaia asserted his belief in the mathematical possibility of victory:
“Mathematically, [the title] is still possible.”
“We know it’s quite difficult, but anything can happen in Barcelona.”
“I do normally perform better at Barcelona, but it’s a more tricky circuit where [you can be very close to] making mistakes, so you have to be more precise.”
With the anticipated drop in temperature as the race weekend approaches, the reigning champion noted that Turns 2 and 5 are likely to pose persistent challenges, especially after experiencing a crash at Turn 5 during this season’s sprint race. He elaborated:
“I crashed there in the sprint race when I had a one-second lead, even though I was trying to avoid any mistakes.”
“It will be tricky; the conditions will be tougher compared to [May] because it will be cold. And two corners there are quite tricky: Turn 2 and Turn 5. It will be important to try to be competitive but still calm.”
“We still have a chance, but we really need some help from others.”
“Otherwise, if I win, Jorge will finish second because we are at another level.”
“So I will try to help everybody during the weekend and lend my slipstream that someone can follow. I just need someone to get between me and Jorge.”
**Interview with MotoGP Expert, Alex Martinez**
**Editor:** Good evening, Alex. The announcement regarding the MotoGP season finale moving to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has been a hot topic today. What are your thoughts on this decision?
**Alex Martinez:** Good evening! Yes, this is a significant development. While the Lusail Circuit in Qatar was initially considered, the logistical challenges and concerns regarding travel expenses for teams made Barcelona a more practical choice.
**Editor:** It’s interesting how logistics played a critical role in this decision. How do you think this will impact the teams and riders, especially with the limited time remaining?
**Alex Martinez:** Absolutely, the timeline is tight, but teams are used to adapting quickly. They’ve already begun logistical preparations, which include distributing paddock passes and bike identification stickers. The excitement is high, particularly because Barcelona is a familiar circuit, providing a sense of normalcy in these unusual circumstances.
**Editor:** Speaking of familiarity, Francesco Bagnaia has a strong history at Barcelona. Do you think this location could give him an edge in the championship race?
**Alex Martinez:** It certainly could. Bagnaia has performed exceptionally well at this circuit in the past, which might boost his confidence as he trails behind Jorge Martin. The mental aspect is crucial in racing, and if he can leverage that experience, we could see a tightly contested finale.
**Editor:** Bagnaia mentioned that while difficult, anything can happen in Barcelona. Do you agree with this sentiment as we approach the final races?
**Alex Martinez:** Definitely! In MotoGP, every race can turn on a dime due to various factors—weather, mechanical issues, or on-track incidents. The unpredictability of the sport is what makes it so thrilling. Bagnaia’s optimism shows his determination, and that’s essential for any contender in the championship.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Alex. As the season finale approaches, it will be exciting to see how everything unfolds at Barcelona!
**Alex Martinez:** You’re welcome! I’m looking forward to it as well. It’s going to be a thrilling conclusion to the season.