At the MotoGP pre-qualifying session held in Catalonia, the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team took an emphatic lead over Ducati with a remarkable one-two finish. Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta delivered outstanding performances, with Binder setting a new circuit lap record of 1:38.141, surpassing Aleix Espargaró’s previous mark by just 0.05 seconds. This dominant showing sent shockwaves through the competition and set the tone for the upcoming qualifying rounds.
Technical Upgrades Propel KTM’s Performance
KTM’s success reflects a significant turnaround after their inconsistent start to the 2025 season. Improvements to the RC16’s chassis and electronics played a crucial role in elevating the bike’s competitiveness. Binder’s blistering pace was a direct result of these enhancements, while Acosta’s strong pace in first practice (FP1) and consistent lap times on fresh tires showcased the team’s renewed strength. Acosta came close to clinching provisional pole, emphasizing KTM’s growing momentum.
“The improvements have made a real difference,”
Binder confirmed, expressing his enthusiasm for the progress made by KTM.
Ducati’s Challenge and Marquez Brothers’ Efforts
Despite KTM’s dominance, Ducati riders fought hard to respond, led by the Marquez brothers. Alex Marquez, racing for Gresini, secured third place just 0.139 seconds behind Binder, while Marc Marquez, the current championship leader, finished in fourth, 0.224 seconds slower. The session was complicated by challenges such as yellow flags caused by crashes involving Johann Zarco and Enea Bastianini, and tactical risks including riders trailing behind Alex Marquez to gain an advantage.
Q2 Contenders and Key Performers
As the Q2 qualifying approaches, several notable riders will battle for prime starting positions. Along with Binder and Acosta, Marco Bezzecchi from Aprilia claimed fifth place, underlining Aprilia’s competitiveness in the season. Bastianini, despite a crash at Turn 2, demonstrated resilience by finishing sixth. Franco Morbidelli and Johann Zarco also aim to secure pole positions, signaling a highly competitive field for Q2.
Difficult Day for Ducati’s Official Riders
The session marked a difficult day for Ducati’s lead riders, with three-time world champion Pecco Bagnaia finishing far down the order in 21st place, over a second behind Binder. His ongoing struggles with braking and handling on the GP25 motorcycle are a cause for concern as the season intensifies. Fabio Di Giannantonio also faced difficulties, ending 17th and requiring advancement through the more challenging Q1 session against fierce competitors such as Jorge Martin and Joan Mir.
Q1 Promises a Fierce Battle to Reach Q2
The Q1 round will be fiercely contested by several top riders fighting to avoid elimination. Notable competitors include Fabio Quartararo, Miguel Oliveira, and Jack Miller. Quartararo narrowly missed direct entry to Q2 by a mere three thousandths of a second, highlighting the intense level of competition and fine margins at play.
KTM’s Strategic Preparation Pays Off
Experts attribute KTM’s extraordinary performance to comprehensive testing sessions held at Barcelona late last year, allowing the team to fine-tune their machines specifically for the Montmelò circuit. The RC16’s agility has proven advantageous on this track, in contrast to the continued braking issues experienced by Ducati’s GP25, which have hampered their performance.
What Lies Ahead: A Tense Qualifying Showdown
With pre-qualifying results shaking up the starting grid, all eyes now turn to the Q2 session where Binder and Acosta carry strong momentum. The Marquez brothers remain formidable contenders, while Bagnaia and Martin face a high-pressure Q1 session that could determine the trajectory of their seasons. KTM’s record-breaking display has undoubtedly shifted the balance at Montmelò, forcing Ducati to respond if they hope to reclaim superiority on home turf.
