Enea Bastianini identifies Marc Marquez as a formidable competitor at the upcoming MotoGP race at the Circuit of the Americas, acknowledging that the Spaniard is exceptionally quick on this particular track.
It is widely known that the Circuit of the Americas is well-suited to Marquez’s style of riding, thanks to its series of fast corners that span the entire lap. Marquez has been dominant at this venue, winning every race held there from its inaugural event in 2013 until 2019 when a crash put an end to his reign.
Although the track was absent from the calendar in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Marquez made a successful comeback in 2021, clinching victory. However, he has not been able to repeat this achievement since then. In 2022, Bastianini emerged as the victor, while Alex Rins secured his second win at COTA in MotoGP last season.
Having missed the race last year due to injury, Bastianini is eagerly anticipating his return to the Texan circuit for the third round of the championship. Reflecting on his previous experience, he fondly remembers his memorable win in 2022 and is excited to be back at COTA.
While Bastianini acknowledges that Marquez poses a challenge on this track, he is also aware that other riders will be formidable opponents. He is looking forward to seeing how the competition unfolds.
This season has started much more positively for Bastianini compared to his difficult debut year on the factory Desmosedici, during which he missed several rounds. He currently sits ahead of his teammate and reigning champion Francesco Bagnaia in the Riders’ Championship, having achieved a podium finish from pole position in Portimao.
Bastianini emphasizes that his mentality remains unchanged, as he believes they have started the year on the right track. The team worked well throughout the winter, and although the season began with some challenges in Qatar, they have a clear understanding of the areas they need to improve. As a result, they approach the upcoming races with a sense of confidence and composure.