Franco Morbidelli’s journey in MotoGP desperately needed a change of scenery after his disappointing time with the Yamaha factory team, and joining the current champion Pramac Ducati should have been a great opportunity. However, his winter preparations are far from ideal. Due to injuries suffered during training, Morbidelli enters the first race of the season with only one day of testing on his new Ducati. This lack of preparation is not ideal for a season that could make or break his career.
The importance of the year 2024 for Morbidelli is no secret. It has been a long time since his impressive 2020 season, where he fought for the championship but was defeated by Joan Mir in a season affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite riding a satellite Yamaha, Morbidelli ended the year with three wins and was only 13 points behind Mir. He also outperformed his teammate Fabio Quartararo, who had already secured a promotion to the factory team in 2021.
However, since then, Morbidelli’s luck has taken a turn for the worse. He suffered a serious knee injury while training at Valentino Rossi’s ranch, followed by two difficult seasons on the Yamaha factory bike. It has been challenging to determine whether the problems were with the rider or the bike, as the Yamaha M1 also experienced a drop in performance. Regardless, Morbidelli has not stood on the podium since early 2021, and his performance has not returned to its previous level.
As a result, Morbidelli was replaced at Yamaha by Alex Rins. Fortunately, he found a new home at Pramac, where he will ride the best satellite bike on the MotoGP grid alongside Jorge Martin, last year’s runner-up. However, this also means that the pressure is on Morbidelli in 2024. He no longer has excuses when it comes to the bike and is expected to challenge for podiums. Failure to do so may result in his replacement after just one season.
To make matters worse, there are already rumors that Ducati has secured the services of Moto2 sensation Fermin Aldeguer, who could replace Morbidelli in the future. With a number of young talents ready to move up to MotoGP next year, Morbidelli’s future in the sport is at stake. Although he may have a potential place in Valentino Rossi’s Ducati satellite team, good results will be crucial to secure his place in the sport.
Unfortunately, Morbidelli’s 2024 season started off terribly. Although he had the opportunity to ride the Ducati for the first time in November, an accident during a training session with a production bike in Portimão resulted in a significant concussion. This forced him to miss both pre-season tests in Sepang and Lusail. As a result, Morbidelli will essentially start the most important season of his career without enough time on his new bike, while his competitors have had enough time to familiarize themselves with their machines. This adds even more pressure to an already challenging situation for Morbidelli.
2024
Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo announced today that he will retire from the field. At 39 years old, the Portuguese player has decided to end his career after a brilliant trajectory in the sport. Ronaldo, who has played for various renowned clubs and won numerous titles, will be missed by fans around the world.
With a career full of records and impressive achievements, Cristiano Ronaldo has established himself as one of the greatest players of all time. Having played for clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, the forward has made his mark in football history. Additionally, Ronaldo was also a key player for the Portuguese national team, leading the country to victory in the 2016 Euro Cup.
Throughout his career, Cristiano Ronaldo has received numerous individual awards, including five Ballon d’Ors. His technical ability, speed, and goal-scoring prowess have made him a feared player by opponents. Furthermore, his dedication and professionalism on and off the field serve as inspiration for young athletes worldwide.
Despite retirement, Cristiano Ronaldo will leave a lasting legacy in football. His influence and impact on the sport will be remembered for many generations. As fans bid farewell to the idol, gratitude remains for all the moments of excitement and joy he provided throughout his career. Thank you, Cristiano Ronaldo, for everything you have done for football.
