Marco Bezzecchi criticize on difficulties of overtaking in Motegi: “To me, it was a shock that…”

 

The recent MotoGP Japanese Grand Prix at the Twin Ring Motegi proved to be a challenging affair for riders, marked by a lack of overtakes and difficulties in making passes. Marco Bezzecchi, who finished seventh, highlighted the struggles faced during the race, reflecting on how the circuit’s characteristics contribute to a more monotonous racing experience.

Bezzecchi commented on the difficulties of braking while following another rider, stating, “When you are behind someone it’s very, very difficult to brake.”

He shared that his experience in the Sprint race was particularly eye-opening, as he hadn’t anticipated how challenging it would be to make progress in the pack. This prepared him somewhat for the main race, yet he still faced significant struggles throughout.

He elaborated on the impact of being stuck behind another competitor, emphasizing the importance of quick overtakes. “Fortunately, I was able to catch up to the riders that I overtook,” he explained.

“I could pass immediately, which allowed me to find some space and keep pushing. But if you are not able to pass

right away and stay behind for a couple of laps, then it’s tough.” The track’s demanding braking zones only exacerbate these challenges, making it a normal aspect of racing at Motegi.

The overall consensus among riders, including Bezzecchi, was that the configuration of the Motegi circuit makes it difficult to execute successful overtakes, resulting in a race that felt somewhat stagnant compared to the thrilling duels typically seen in MotoGP.

As the season progresses, teams and riders will need to adapt to these challenges, seeking ways to enhance both performance and the excitement of the races.