Marc Marquez dominated the second practice session at the San Marino MotoGP on the Misano Circuit, delivering the fastest time amid a chaotic day marked by multiple crashes. Despite encountering difficulties with the high-speed right-hand bends in sector three, Marquez managed to outpace Marco Bezzecchi by just over 0.1 seconds, asserting control during a session filled with tension and unpredictability.
Challenging Conditions Tested Top Riders
The practice session featured numerous incidents that disrupted riders’ rhythm. Yamaha teammates Augusto Fernandez and Jack Miller both crashed—Fernandez earlier in the session due to a technical issue, and Miller at the first corner. Joan Mir also fell at turn ten but recovered to continue. In the closing moments, Raul Fernandez suffered a crash at turn fifteen, adding to the unsettled atmosphere on track. These events triggered yellow flags at crucial points, impeding some riders’ attempts to improve their lap times.
Strong Performances Amid a Competitive Field
While Marquez maintained a swift and consistent pace on medium-compound tires, other riders contended with close battles for position. Franco Morbidelli delivered a personal best lap to move into third place, pushing Francesco Bagnaia down to fourth after Bagnaia briefly held the top time. Alex Marquez secured fifth ahead of Joan Mir and Luca Marini, both testing new exhaust and aerodynamic upgrades on their Honda RC213Vs. Jorge Martin capitalized on Bezzecchi’s pace to claim eighth, with Pedro Acosta and Fabio Di Giannantonio rounding out the top ten. In contrast, Yamaha’s Fabio Quartararo struggled throughout the session and was unable to complete a final clean lap due to the yellow flags.
Tire Choices Shape the Session’s Outcome
Tire strategy was a critical factor during practice. All riders selected medium-front tires, but rear tire preferences varied between soft and medium compounds. Marquez consistently delivered laps in the low 1:31 range on medium tires, while Bezzecchi, who started strong on soft rear tires, lost time after approximately eighteen laps, dropping to lap times in the mid-to-high 31-second range. This consistency on medium tires proved a decisive advantage for Marquez.
What the Practice Results Mean for the Race
The intensity and disruptions of the San Marino MotoGP practice underline the unpredictable nature of the Misano track. Marc Marquez’s ability to perform strongly despite challenging conditions and track incidents positions him as a formidable contender in the race ahead. As the competition tightens and the battle for victory intensifies, fans and teams alike will watch closely to see if Marquez can sustain his pace or if the ongoing chaos will alter the outcome of the upcoming Grand Prix.
