Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/1529511
498. Marquez's 392, in final flourish in Gresini's colors, was enough for third, as he ended six clear of Bastianini on 386. "I still can't believe it, I'm in shock!" said Martin. "Emotions are high, I've cried a lot! Now I just want to celebrate with my team, family and friends. It's been a long journey. My career wasn't easy. For sure, I had good opportunities, but I think I built them. I worked quite hard. I made a lot of sacrifices. Last season, I had the opportunity, but I think I wasn't prepared to sign [complete the deal] let's say. But this year I felt it was my year. Thanks to Pramac, thanks to Ducati for giving me the op - portunity to have an amazing until you go on the finish line!'" He duly managed to become the first satellite rider since 2001 to win a premier-class crown. Not even losing fourth to Alex Marquez two laps from the flag could deflate Espargaro, who en - joyed a fitting finale. As Acosta faded late on with brake issues, Binder rescued an impressive sixth, coming home ahead of an incandescent Bastianini and Morbidelli. Bezzecchi was ninth in his final race for VR46, just ahead of a disappointed Acosta and Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha), who was en - couraged by the fact he was just 10 seconds back of the victor. Martin (508 points) ends the year 10 points clear of Bagnaia's As the season edged toward its end, Marc Marquez made several threats on Bagnaia's su - premacy. He shaved three-tenths of a second off the number one's lead on lap 20, getting to within half a second. Yet this was text- book Bagnaia, who was saving himself before a final late push. That left him clear to win an 18th race of the season, including Sprints, by 1.4 seconds. By lap 16 it was clear Martin could breathe as he pulled clear in third with Espargaro and Alex Mar - quez behind. Yet, "with seven laps to go, was a difficult moment," he said. "I started to remember a lot of moments in all my career. But then I said, 'Jorge, you need to finish the job. Nothing is done ROUND 20 / NOVEMBER 15-17, 2024 CIRCUIT OF BARCELONA-CATALUNYA / BARCELONA, SPAIN ROAD RACE I FIM MOTOGP WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP P58 Bezzecchi leaves the comfy confines of VR46 Ducati to be Martin's teammate in the factory Aprilia team for 2025.