Enea Bastianini marked his return to the MotoGP podium by finishing third at Sunday’s Catalan Grand Prix in Barcelona, securing his initial top-three finish as a KTM rider. Despite starting ninth due to an error in qualifying, he demonstrated impressive recovery throughout the race, placing himself firmly in contention for a podium spot early on.
Strong Race Pace and Overtakes Propel Bastianini Forward
By the third lap, Bastianini had already advanced to fourth place, quickly closing the gap on his KTM teammate, Pedro Acosta. On lap 11, he executed a decisive move by overtaking Acosta under braking at Turn 1, cementing his position near the front. Meanwhile, Alex and Marc Marquez stretched their lead on the Ducati machines, but Bastianini maintained his momentum to hold third place until the checkered flag.
This podium finish was Bastianini’s first in a grand prix since last year’s Malaysian GP and a significant step beyond his recent top-three result in the Brno sprint race.
Bastianini Reflects on His Return to Form
When asked if he considers himself “back,” the Italian rider responded,
“I hope so. I was consistent during the last GPs, but for some bad luck and also my mistakes, that moment only arrived today. But we are improving and I’m always in the top 10 in all the sessions, more or less.”
I think yes, I’m back. But also I’m back to ride very well.
—Enea Bastianini, Red Bull KTM Tech 3
While he acknowledged his progress, Bastianini admitted he has yet to reach the peak level displayed in 2024, when he secured two wins and finished fourth in the championship riding a factory Ducati.
“During the last period of last year, I was at a very good level, and at the moment, yes, I can play with the bike, I’m much faster compared to before. But to be honest, I’m not at 100%. I do not have confidence in every practice to remain a bit quiet, and to relax. But maybe for my future, yes. The direction is the correct one.”
Anticipation of Equipment Updates to Enhance Performance
Bastianini highlighted ongoing adjustments and awaited equipment improvements, saying,
“I’m waiting to see some news from KTM. I was waiting for a new seat because sometimes I miss my foot from the footrest. Let’s see when it will arrive.”
I’m waiting to see some news from KTM. I was waiting for a new seat because sometimes I miss my foot from the footrest. Let’s see when it will arrive.
—Enea Bastianini, Red Bull KTM Tech 3
Mindset and Bike Developments Boost Confidence and Results
The rider’s approach shifted notably after missing the German GP due to food poisoning, marking a turning point in his mindset and confidence on the bike. The latest updates to the KTM RC16 provided an additional performance boost, with KTM riders standing on the podium in three of the last four grand prix events.
Bastianini explained,
“Yes, it [my riding style] has changed because you are more conscious about your feeling, your first touch [with the bike in practice]. [Previously], when I was jumping on the bike, I wasn’t confident. But when I came back after my stomach injury and I jumped on the bike, from the start, I thought, ‘OK, this is my bike, I can play, I can do some different maneuvers’.”
And starting from that period, my point of view has changed, and now the feeling has improved.
—Enea Bastianini, Red Bull KTM Tech 3
Implications for the Season Ahead
Bastianini’s resurgence signals potential for continued KTM competitiveness in this season’s MotoGP championship. His improved consistency and evolving confidence could lead to more strong finishes in upcoming races, especially as technical upgrades are introduced. With key rivals like Marc Marquez and Alex pushing Ducati forward, Bastianini’s challenge for higher championship standings appears increasingly credible as he regains form.
