P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Ducati: Bastianini has rediscovered 2022 form after stellar Sepang MotoGP pace
Italian rider Enea Bastianini had a successful 2022 season, securing four victories and multiple podium finishes with his satellite team Gresini Ducati. Due to his impressive performance, he earned a spot in the factory team for the following season. However, injuries in Portugal and the Catalan GP hindered his progress, and he was only able to make a full comeback in October. Despite talks of Jorge Martin replacing him in 2024, Bastianini managed to retain his seat after winning in Malaysia. In the first pre-season test of 2024, Bastianini showcased strong pace, finishing third behind Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin. Ducati’s top brass are pleased with his performance, and team manager Davide Tardozzi believes he will be a title contender. Bagnaia also praises Bastianini’s consistency and predicts he will be competitive this season. Bastianini feels more comfortable with the 2024-spec Ducati, resulting in improved speed in both short and long runs.
