Bastianini wins Emilia-Romagna GP, Ducati's 100th victory
Italian rider Enea Bastianini clinched victory in the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix at the Misano circuit, securing Ducati's 100th MotoGP win. The race culminated in a thrilling final lap showdown between Bastianini and Pramac Racing's Jorge Martin, with Bastianini making an aggressive overtake on turn four to claim the top spot.
Marc Marquez of Gresini Racing rounded out the podium in third place, completing a Ducati sweep. This dominant performance allowed Ducati to clinch the constructors' championship with six rounds remaining in the season.
The race was marked by drama as reigning champion Francesco Bagnaia crashed out while in third position. Bagnaia, who had started from pole and won the sprint race, briefly led before engaging in a battle with Martin. However, his race ended prematurely when he lost balance on turn eight during a late-race charge.
Martin's second-place finish extended his lead in the riders' championship to 24 points over Bagnaia. The Spanish rider had shown strong performance throughout the race, leading for significant portions before Bastianini's final lap maneuver.
The home crowd erupted in celebration as Bastianini, spurred on by the fans, secured the victory on Italian soil. Martin initially protested the aggressive overtake but ultimately accepted the result.
In the supporting races, Celestino Vietti claimed victory in Moto2 after a close finish, winning by just 0.029 seconds over Aron Canet and Tony Arbolino. The Moto3 race saw David Alonso extend his title lead with a win, holding off Angel Piqueras and Collin Veijer.
This victory marks a significant moment for Ducati, celebrating their centenary of MotoGP wins and further solidifying their dominance in the current season. The race also reshuffles the championship standings, adding intrigue to the remaining rounds of the season as riders vie for the top positions in their respective classes.