P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Marquez calls for “dangerous” Qatar MotoGP grid clean up
The asphalt at the Losail International Circuit has been repaved for the first time since it opened in 2004 ahead of this year’s event. Grip was a challenge in the first practice session due to the new surface and desert setting, resulting in lap times being over three seconds slower than the record. The second session saw improved times as rubber was laid and the asphalt was cleaned, with Maverick Vinales breaking the lap record, but it was deleted for a yellow flag violation. Overall, the riders praised the new surface, but some expressed concerns about the dirty grid and the potential for incidents during the races. Marc Marquez and Maverick Vinales both called for the grid to be cleaned to avoid dangerous situations. Additionally, many riders experienced graining on the front tires, but it is expected to improve as more rubber is laid down throughout the weekend.