Enea Bastianini identifies Marc Marquez as a formidable competitor in the upcoming MotoGP race at Circuit of the Americas, acknowledging that the Spaniard is exceptionally fast at this particular track.
It is widely known that Circuit of the Americas suits Marquez’s riding style, thanks to its series of fast corners that span the entire lap. Marquez has been dominant at this venue, winning all races held there from the inaugural event in 2013 until 2019, when a crash ended his reign.
Although the track was absent from the calendar in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Marquez made a successful return in 2021, clinching victory. However, he has not been able to repeat that achievement since. In 2022, Bastianini emerged as the winner, while Alex Rins secured his second MotoGP win at COTA in the last season.
Having missed the race last year due to injury, Bastianini is eager for his return to the Texan circuit for the third round of the championship. Reflecting on his previous experience, he fondly remembers his memorable victory in 2022 and is excited to return to COTA.
While Bastianini acknowledges that Marquez poses a challenge at 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 rookie year on the factory Desmosedici, during which he missed several rounds. Currently, he is ahead of his teammate and reigning champion Francesco Bagnaia in the Riders’ Championship, having achieved a podium from pole position in Portimão.
Bastianini emphasizes that his mindset remains unchanged, as he believes they started the year on the right path. The team worked well during 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 confidence and composure.
