MotoGP Catalan GP: Jorge Martin Secures 2024 Riders' Championship as Francesco Bagnaia Wins in Barcelona

Pramac Racing's Jorge Martin made history by clinching the 2024 MotoGP World Championship with a calculated third-place finish at the Catalan Grand Prix. Despite a dominant performance from Francesco Bagnaia, who secured his 11th victory of the season, Martin's consistent points-scoring throughout the year proved decisive. Entering the final race with a crucial 19-point lead, Martin needed only a top-nine finish to secure the title. His strategic approach to the race ensured a 10-point margin over Bagnaia, making him the first rider in the MotoGP era to win a championship on a satellite bike. The last rider to achieve this feat was Valentino Rossi in the 2001 500cc season.

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As Pramac Racing prepares to transition to Yamaha's satellite team in 2025, Martin will carry the coveted #1 plate to Aprilia. In the Barcelona race, Marc Marquez's second-place finish secured his third position in the overall championship standings, ahead of Enea Bastianini.

MotoGP Catalan GP: Race Result

A key moment in the race came when Aleix Espargaro, a close friend of Martin's, engaged in a fierce battle with Enea Bastianini. Espargaro's defensive riding not only secured valuable points for himself but also played a crucial role in protecting Martin's championship lead. Despite late pressure from Alex Marquez, Espargaro held on to finish fifth, marking an emotional farewell to his 20-year Grand Prix career.

Bastianini, who recovered to sixth place, narrowly missed out on third place in the overall championship standings. Brad Binder's impressive charge from 18th to sixth secured him fifth place.

GASGAS Tech3's Augusto Fernandez finished 19th. Miguel Oliveira returned to the grid after a lengthy absence due to injury, riding for Trackhouse Racing. Ducati test rider Michele Pirro filled in for the injured Fabio Di Giannantonio at VR46 Racing.

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The Catalan Grand Prix served as a fitting finale to the 2024 MotoGP season, providing a thrilling conclusion to a year filled with drama, excitement, and historic achievements.