P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Luca Marini has called on MotoGP to “renegotiate” its qualifying format, saying the current system is a “huge handicap” for riders missing Q2.
Luca Marini believes MotoGP should reconsider its qualifying format due to the disadvantage it puts on riders not making it to Q2. In MotoGP, most Q2 pole position shootout spots are earned by finishing in the top ten in Friday Practice, with the rest decided in Qualifying 1 on Saturday morning. Those missing Q2 start 13th or lower, facing a double punishment with the same grid for both Sprint and Grand Prix races. Marini suggested allowing more riders to advance from Q1 to Q2 as in Moto2 and Moto3, where four riders progress. He emphasized the need to improve qualifying performance to secure better starting positions and avoid the challenges faced starting lower on the grid. Marini acknowledged the advantage Honda’s competitors have in extracting more potential from the rear tire in qualifying, emphasizing the importance of Honda improving its one-lap pace. He highlighted the need for Honda riders to qualify higher to be competitive for podium finishes, citing examples of impressive comeback podiums achieved by riders from Qualifying 2. Despite challenges in qualifying and race incidents, Marini remains determined to improve and compete at the front of the MotoGP grid.
