Enea Bastianini experienced a dramatic crash during Friday’s practice session for the 2025 Catalan MotoGP at the Montmeló circuit in Barcelona, yet still managed to finish within the top ten. The Italian rider collided with the barriers after his KTM RC16 flipped through the gravel at Turn 2, an area where he admits a pattern of mistakes seems to follow him. Despite the incident, Bastianini displayed resilience, maintaining his competitive pace throughout the day.
Strong Showing Amidst Setbacks for KTM Riders
Bastianini’s performance helped position three KTM riders inside the top six, trailing behind the team’s factory leaders Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta, who secured the front spots. Bastianini was just 0.359 seconds behind Binder, underscoring his determination despite the crash. He described the sessions positively and remained hopeful about improving his performance in the next steps of the weekend.
Challenging Track Conditions Add Pressure
However, the riders face difficult grip levels this year, which complicates bike handling and overall performance. Bastianini emphasized the need for careful analysis before Saturday’s qualifying, noting that he and his team expect a significant drop in grip. This unpredictability affects all competitors, increasing the challenge at a circuit already known for its demanding turns and fast sections.
Maverick Vinales’ Steady Return Despite Injury
Meanwhile, teammate Maverick Vinales returned to the track after recovering from a shoulder injury, posting the fourth fastest time in the morning session. However, the afternoon showed signs of physical limitations as he dropped to 23rd place. Vinales acknowledged the difficulty of riding while still rebuilding strength and muscle, expressing gratitude simply to participate at this stage of recovery.
Ongoing Questions and Anticipation Ahead of Qualifying
As the practice sessions conclude and qualifying looms, the spotlight remains on whether Bastianini can break his recurring misfortune at the Barcelona chicane or if the notorious corner will once again challenge his progress. The intense competition among KTM riders and their factory teammates highlights the high stakes of this MotoGP weekend. Every detail and decision will be critical as the battle for pole position and race victory heats up.
“It seems that I crash every year at this corner, so it looks like a bad habit, which I need to accept! But it was a very good day for us, and I am looking forward to continuing the work tomorrow.” —Enea Bastianini, Rider
“The two sessions have been positive for us,” —Enea Bastianini, Rider
“We need to carefully analyze everything for tomorrow because we expect a big drop. But it’s like this for everyone.” —Enea Bastianini, Rider
“Honestly, it is a gift that I am able to ride here in Montmelo; it is much sooner than I expected,” —Maverick Vinales, Rider
“I felt quite limited as the day went by, but I am just really happy to be here today. We need more time; it is tough physically as I have lost muscles, and I am basically riding with one arm, but we knew all of this arriving here.” —Maverick Vinales, Rider
