P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Bastianini’s MotoGP podium return in Portugal “beautiful”
The Ducati rider secured his first pole position since the 2022 Austrian GP at the Algarve International Circuit last weekend, but despite this, he finished sixth in the sprint race due to an issue with his start device. Bastianini showcased improved performance in the grand prix and finished in second place after Maverick Vinales crashed out due to a gearbox problem. This marked his first podium since winning the Malaysian GP last year, and Bastianini expressed his satisfaction, mentioning that it was great to be back on the podium despite the challenges he faced the day before. Bastianini set the fastest lap of the race on lap 21 but acknowledged that winning was out of reach, recognizing the excellent performance of race winner Jorge Martin. His podium finish elevated him to third place in the standings, trailing Martin by 21 points and holding a two-point advantage over his factory teammate Francesco Bagnaia.
