2024-11-05 16:01:00
Published on November 5, 2024 at 5:01 p.m.
It is in Barcelona, the weekend of November 16-17, that we will know the name of the 2024 world champion. MotoGP leaders announced this Tuesday that the Catalan circuit will be the scene of the very last Grand Prix of the season, replacing Valencia. The Ricardo Tormo circuit suffered very serious damage during the terrible floods which hit Valencia and its region last week. (the newspaper As published photos showing the circuit parking lot totally devastated, and the access road collapsed in places) and the latest report shows 219 deaths. And it is therefore the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit, which hosted the Barcelona GP last May, which will replace it.
Martin Advantage
“This Grand Prix being the last of the season, the sporting context and our positive impact mean that, for our fans, our paddock, our sport and Valencia, we had to hold this event. Instead of riding in Valencia, MotoGP will ride for Valencia, its region and all the people affected by this disaster. Barcelona is the easiest option for fans who had already planned to attend the final round of the MotoGP season (the two cities are separated by 350km, editor’s note). The venue and circuit are also the most efficient choice, offering an almost perfect alternative for personnel and logistics,” explain the MotoGP organizers in a press release. It is therefore in Barcelona that Jorge Martin will be crowned for the first time or Francesco Bagnaia for the third time. The 26-year-old Spanish rider, member of the Pramac team, is currently 24 points ahead of the 27-year-old Italian rider, member of the Ducati team, while there remains a maximum of 37 points to take (12 during the sprint race, 25 during the GP). Bagnaia won the Catalan GP last May and will therefore leave with a psychological advantage, but will it be enough compared to Martin’s accounting advantage?
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**Interview with Racing Analyst, Marco Rinaldi, on Barcelona Hosting the 2024 MotoGP Finale**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Marco. The announcement that Barcelona will host the 2024 MotoGP finale is significant. What are your thoughts on this change from Valencia?
**Marco Rinaldi:** Thank you for having me! This is indeed a major development. The Valencia circuit has been a traditional venue for the season finale, but given the severe flooding and the resulting damage, it was essential to find a suitable alternative. Barcelona is a fantastic choice, not only because of its rich racing history but also because it is ready to accommodate such a significant event.
**Interviewer:** What can fans expect from the Motul Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona, especially considering it will determine the world champion?
**Marco Rinaldi:** Fans can look forward to an exhilarating weekend! Given that this will be the final race of the season, the atmosphere will be electric. With the championship on the line, tensions will be high as riders give their all to secure that title. The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is known for its exciting layout, so we’re likely to see some thrilling battles.
**Interviewer:** How do you think the recent flooding in Valencia will impact the teams’ preparations, if at all?
**Marco Rinaldi:** That’s a good question. The teams were likely gearing up for the Valencia race, and now with this sudden shift to Barcelona, there may be some logistical challenges. However, the teams are well-equipped to adapt quickly. They have already been to Barcelona earlier in the season, which should even the playing field a bit.
**Interviewer:** The situation in Valencia has been tragic, with reports of extensive damage and loss of life. How do you think the MotoGP community will respond to this tragedy?
**Marco Rinaldi:** The MotoGP community is known for its solidarity and compassion. It’s likely that there will be initiatives to support the victims of the flooding, whether through charitable events or contributions from the organization. The spirit of racing often brings people together, and this will be an opportunity for everyone involved to show their support for those affected.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, any predictions for the race weekend? Who do you think will come out on top?
**Marco Rinaldi:** It’s hard to say! If the championship is close, any of the top contenders could take it. It might come down to the final laps, as always. I would keep an eye on the top riders in the championship standings; they have a lot at stake, and it’s going to be a fierce competition.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Marco, for your insights. We’re looking forward to an exciting finale in Barcelona!
**Marco Rinaldi:** My pleasure! It’s going to be a thrilling event, and I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds.