Spanish MotoGP quality: We are hungry for victory in Jerez / MotoGP

Despite all the sporting glory of the MotoGP race in Jerez de la Frontera last year, from the point of view of the world of Spanish fans, the corks had to remain in the big champagne bottles.

The event was significantly flawed due to the absence of series world champion and national hero Marc Márquez. And with all due respect, the duo of Iker Lecuona and Joan Mir had very little enthusiasm in 2023. The famous Pol Espargaro was also not on gas in 2023.

Despite Aleix Espargaro topping the grid in both the race and the Gran Premio, no Spanish MotoGP rider made it to the podium. GP was especially bitter for Jorge Martin. The Pramac racer finished fourth twice and had to watch Pecco Bagnaia, of all people, win the Grand Prix. Other crashes at the Jerez Festival were KTM riders and also named Brad Binder and Jack Miller a year ago. The South African won the race and finished second in the GP. “Thriller Miller” placed third in both cases.

The Spaniards would like to cheer on the KTM RC16 driver again in 2024 – but the machine should be painted red and the tamer named Pedro Acosta. With a strong start to the season, the 19-year-old has brought himself and the fans into the right heat for Jerez. After two consecutive podium finishes, third place at the local festival would not be surprising.
Fans would also like Dani Pedrosa. The Spanish samurai, who uses his edge for Austria, was praised for his best times in Jerez last summer.

Things can be very difficult among Spanish riders. Back in the game is Marc Márquez, competitive and fit. Aprilia also has a better card. Maverick Vinales, who is undefeated in the United States, comes to Andalusia with the highest adrenaline. That’s not enough heroes with Spanish passports. Jorge Martin, as the leader of the World Championship, has the most pressure among the home heroes. There’s a lot at stake for “Martinator” next weekend.

A similar podium finish to 2023 with Ducati works rider Enea Bastianini, who is at his best this year, remains a possibility. Doha, Portimao and Austin have shown that no one in the field is guaranteed success. A lot is possible. Half of the starting field is on pace for a place on the podium – and the home of Spain.

But it would be the devil of MotoGP if this excellent line-up of riders failed to have a podium feast with the participation of Spain again.