The Race MotoGP Podcast

Pecco Bagnaia showed exactly what he's a double MotoGP world champion by controlling the Qatar Grand Prix despite a slightly shaky qualifying and sprint.But will this race really be remembered for the debut of another champion? Though it only resulted in ninth place in the end, Pedro Acosta's swashbuckling style on and off the track made a huge impression on The Race MotoGP Podcast panel Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer - who debate how long it'll take Acosta to win races, and whether KTM can wait to get him into its main team.KTM and Aprilia's chances of challenging Ducati this year, how Marc Marquez's title prospects look after his Ducati race debut, and miserable weekends for a 2023 title contender and fallen giants Honda and Yamaha also come in for plenty of discussion.Join The Race Members Club and have a free month on us! Click here to sign upFollow the new Race Moto channel on Instagram and TwitterCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marc Marquez's move to Gresini Ducati is a huge curveball for the 2024 MotoGP season, but will he actually be a title contender? Or will this be a repeat of last year's epic Pecco Bagnaia versus Jorge Martin battle? And either way, who'll come out on top?The Race MotoGP Podcast gathers Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer to predict the 2024 championship order - and argue over each other's choices. As well as plenty of debate about Marquez, Bagnaia and Martin, we also discuss whether how far up the title fight pecking order Enea Bastianini's winter progress might take him, and why Marco Bezzecchi seems set for a much tougher season.There's also plenty of chat about who's best placed among the non-Ducatis - and who we really don't expect to get anywhere near the top championship placings.Join The Race's GridRival league and you could win $5000. Free to join. Free to play. Click here to sign up.FEBRUARY IS FREE! Join The Race Members Club and have a free month on us! Click here to sign upFollow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With 18 of the 22 riders on the grid out of contract at the end of the year, multiple past champions either unhappy with their current machinery or clearly in stopgap mode with their 2024 teams, and uncertainty over which brand some satellite teams will actually be with next season and what that'll mean for their line-ups, the 2025 MotoGP rider market is set to be a wild one.But can The Race MotoGP Podcast accurately predict how it will turn out.Simon Patterson and Val Khorounzhiy pitch their cases for Matt Beer to adjudicate on as our panel attempt to improve on the 50% success rate they had last time they tried to predict a full grid rider line-up a whole year in advance.Who'll be on the move? Who'll reluctantly sit tight due to a lack of options? Who's heading out of MotoGP, and who's usurping them from the grid? How much will Simon and Val disagree on? Listen to find out.FEBRUARY IS FREE! Join The Race Members Club and have a free month on us! Click here to sign upFollow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reigning double MotoGP world champion Pecco Bagnaia ended 2024 pre-season testing with a ferocious burst of pace in Qatar that makes him an instant strong favourite for the opening round there next month and the title itself.But while Bagnaia has the edge and bags of confidence right now, he's far from the only rider looking strong at the end of the winter, as Simon Patterson, Val Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer discuss on the Qatar test episode of The Race MotoGP Podcast.We look at the off-season transformation of Bagnaia's team-mate Enea Bastianini, the test form of last year's runner-up Jorge Martin and of course Ducati's superstar new signing Marc Marquez - who also answers a few of your questions in this episode.And we assess who has the best chance of barging into the potential Ducati 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8 formation, and analyse whether Yamaha and Honda are actually making any progress yet.FEBRUARY IS FREE! Join The Race Members Club and have a free month on us! Click here to sign upFollow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Six-time MotoGP champion Marc Marquez joins The Race MotoGP Podcast for an exclusive interview less than three weeks before his competitive debut on the Ducati.In a candid chat with MotoGP writer Simon Patterson, Marquez discusses the short-term ambitions of his Gresini Ducati move and how everything about it is being influenced by his keen awareness of the inexorable march of time.He sets out his targets for 2024 and emphasises the impact of his injuries on the competitive picture, while also giving his assessment of Honda's MotoGP developments since their split.Finally, he gives his expectations for how the 2025 silly season will go for him.FEBRUARY IS FREE! Join The Race Members Club and have a free month on us! Click here to sign upFollow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With one MotoGP pre-season test down and one to go, several riders go into next week's final two days of running in Qatar with significant problems to solve.And those problems have implications beyond the season-opening Qatar Grand Prix and even the 2024 campaign too, given how wild this year's rider market is set to be.Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer look at who's under pressure and how that pressure is multiplied by the moves teams will already be making towards their 2025 line-ups in a year when only four of the 22 riders on the grid have a contract for next season sorted.Those 2025 prospects weigh on everything in MotoGP at the moment, with even Honda's launch of its strikingly Repsol-light new livery turning into chat about whether Marc Marquez will be back there as early as next year.Speaking of Marc Marquez... he will be our very, very special guest for an exclusive interview on the next episode of The Race MotoGP Podcast, and we'll put some of your questions to him. Send them to [email protected] and we'll pick a selection of the best to fit into Simon's one-on-one with the seven-time MotoGP champion later this week.FEBRUARY IS FREE! Join The Race Members Club and have a free month on us! Click here to sign upFollow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Between Marc Marquez beginning life at Gresini Ducati properly, the massive changes many manufacturers were planning over the winter and the hints of something from Ducati that would change the aero game, the first 2024 pre-season MotoGP test was very eagerly awaited.Simon Patterson joins Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer on The Race MotoGP Podcast from Kuala Lumpur airport for an urgent dissection of everything we learned from three days of lap record smashing running at Sepang.Marquez's mood after a shaky first day, shifts in the Ducati power balance and some contrasting impressions of Yamaha and Honda's progress are among the many, many topics discussed.And when it comes to picking out a standout performer from the test, we get very excited about the 'next Marquez' - sole 2024 MotoGP rookie Pedro Acosta.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidClick here to join The Race Members' Club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marc Marquez's move from Honda to Gresini Ducati means a change of crew chief for the first time in his whole MotoGP career - and we've got his new crew chief Frankie Carchedi with us on The Race MotoGP Podcast for an exclusive chat.Carchedi talks Simon Patterson and Valentin Khorounzhiy through his experience of working with Marquez so far and his feelings about being at the centre of the biggest MotoGP rider move in years.And he also offers plenty of unique insight into MotoGP crew chief life and methods.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidClick here to join The Race Members' Club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After making very rapid waves in NASCAR, Trackhouse Racing enters a very different world in 2024 as it joins the MotoGP grid as Aprilia's new satellite team.Trackhouse chief Justin Marks joined The Race MotoGP Podcast for an exclusive chat about the creation of his team's first motorcycle racing project ahead of its launch event in Los Angeles last Friday night, opening up about what drew him to MotoGP and what he expects his team to achieve in its earlier-than-planned debut season.And Marks gave our regular panel Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer plenty to talk about, from where Trackhouse fits into MotoGP's plan to get itself back on the USA's radar to whether the team's 2024 riders Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez are just going to be inherited stopgaps rather than parts of what's clearly a long-term project.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidClick here to join The Race Members' Club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As 2024 MotoGP launch season gets into full swing, The Race MotoGP Podcast joins Simon Patterson on his Italian road trip from Gresini to VR46 via a four-day Ducati extravaganza.He keeps Matt Beer and Valentin Khorounzhiy posted as he follows up attending Marc Marquez's debut in Ducati colours with a factory Ducati team launch where the main revelation was news of an aero change too significant to risk revealing before testing. We explain why Ducati - for all its domination - is potentially vulnerable around aero development, despite pioneering wings on MotoGP bikes in the 2010s.As for Valentino Rossi's new-liveried team, we ponder the early dynamic surrounding new signing Fabio Di Giannantonio and whether the 2023-spec Ducatis can really keep up with their factory-spec brethren.We also discuss the off-the-record element of major launch events and how useful they can be for relationships with riders, plus Ducati's attempt to transfer its MotoGP and World Superbike domination to motocross.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidClick here to join The Race Members' Club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The MotoGP world finally got to see Marc Marquez in something other than Repsol Honda colours and Marquez finally got to share his thoughts on riding a Ducati when his new team Gresini held its 2024 launch on Saturday night.Simon Patterson dived straight from the Italian disco venue to join Matt Beer and Valentin Khorounzhiy on The Race MotoGP Podcast so he could report back on the mood at an event unlike any other satellite team launch MotoGP has experienced before.They discuss Marquez's reports on the bike and his expectations, hear exclusively from his new crew chief Frankie Carchedi, and explain why Gresini's livery looks exactly like last year's even though you might've expected an influx of new sponsors to arrive with Marquez.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidClick here to join The Race Members' Club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MotoGP could finally shake off its Valentino Rossi hangover in 2024 as Marc Marquez's team switch creates huge sporting intrigue in a championship that's already just experienced its best title fight in years.But while interest in MotoGP is clearly rising right now, is it accessible enough to new fans and can it keep them hooked? Are its approaches to television and streaming right for this era? Is the fan experience at races good enough?The Race MotoGP Podcast put your questions on all of this to Dorna's chief commercial officer Dan Rossomondo, and we debate his answers and everything else off-track MotoGP with our regular panel Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer plus The Race Media's creative lead Oliver Card - a recent MotoGP convert of exactly the kind Dorna needs to entice and keep on board.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidClick here to join The Race Members' Club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's episode, host Toby Moody sits down for an in-depth chat with a MotoGP legend: Sito Pons. A familiar face in the MotoGP paddock for more than 40 years, the Spaniard has achieved nearly everything possible in Grand Prix racing, winning the 205cc world title twice, managing a race-winning premier class team, working with some of the best riders in the sport's recent history, guiding Pol Espargaro to the 2013 Moto2 championship, and much more. Listen in as he discusses his incredible career - and why he's now chosen to step back from running a team.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidClick here to join The Race Members' Club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Race MotoGP Podcast begins 2024 with some characteristically bold predictions for the MotoGP season ahead.Matt Beer tasks Simon Patterson and Valentin Khorounzhiy with some big picture topics - such as who'll do significantly better or worse than in 2023, whether Ducati will be more or less dominant, who'll be first to commit to a 2025 team switch.And they don't waste any chances to disagree with each other or challenge the premise of the question as they make their cases for why 2024 will turn out in the ways they expect.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidClick here to join The Race Members' Club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2023 MotoGP season had at least three realistic title contenders, 10 race winners if you count sprints too, eight polesitters (three of whom weren't even race winners), and 15 grand prix podium finishers.So picking and ranking the top 10 riders was not an easy task when Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorouzhiy, Matt Beer and guest pundit Glenn Freeman joined forces to do so on The Race MotoGP Podcast. Unsurprisingly there were some _very_ different positions suggested for many riders.Take a listen to the full debate in a bumper episode to round off our season.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidClick here to join The Race Members' Club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We had far more questions than we could hope to fit in a single episode of The Race MotoGP Podcast when we asked what you still wanted answered about the 2023 season or 2024 prospects.Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer tackle the first batch in the latest episode, and they're headlined by some Ducati rider line-up intrigue - particularly around Franco Morbidelli and Enea Bastianini.A conspiracy theory around 2024 newcomer Trackhouse, the mysteries of Maverick Vinales and a theory for how to stop rider injuries deciding title fights are among the many other topics that feature.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidClick here to join The Race Members' Club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A long chat with much-hyped MotoGP rookie Pedro Acosta headlines the first off-season episode of The Race MotoGP Podcast. Valentin Khorounzhiy is joined by Simon Patterson, who spoke to Acosta as well as MotoGP champion Pecco Bagnaia and Moto3 champion Jaume Masia during the FIM prize gala in Liverpool.In an extensive conversation, Acosta reflects on his first taste of KTM machinery in the premier class - which he is now very bullish about being a "nightmare" for its rivals in the not-too-distant future. The Moto2 champ also shares his infectious enthusiasm for MotoGP rivalries of old and gives his take on being talked about as 'the new Marc Marquez' in a paddock where "the guy who smiles at you isn't your friend sometimes".Meanwhile, Bagnaia looks back at the title decider he'd prevailed in - and sets the stage for 2024 after what he believes was a very encouraging post-season test. Finally, Masia talks about his swift-looking Moto2 adaptation and the erosion of the 'middle class' of riders in grand prix racing - while the podcast crew also discuss his much-debated Moto3 title triumph.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just two days after the 2023 MotoGP season ended, the 2024 MotoGP season began with a hugely eagerly anticipated Valencia test headlined by Marc Marquez jumping on a Ducati for the first time.Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer have plenty to say about just _how_ quick he was, what it means for the 2024 title fight and the Ducati dynamic in The Race MotoGP Podcast.But, ironically, the team Marquez had just walked away from had a hugely encouraging day too. Has Honda come good just a little too late?We delve into that plus Yamaha's latest efforts to get back towards the front, the MotoGP debut of Pedro 'the next Marquez' Acosta and some very big news about a rules package designed to bring Ducati back into its rivals' range.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Patterson joins Valentin Khorounzhiy to discuss the 2023 MotoGP season finale in Valencia, in which Pecco Bagnaia claimed his second successive championship crown as title rival Jorge Martin endured an incident-laden final Sunday of the year that ended in a collision with Marc Marquez. There's also news on the future of RNF Aprilia, whether Fabio Di Giannantonio will indeed be on the grid next year, and much more...Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just when he seemed to have Pecco Bagnaia on the ropes once again following a hard-charging sprint win, Jorge Martin's terrible Sunday race leaves him back in title long-shot status with just the Valencia finale to go.Simon Patterson and Valentin Khorounzhiy join Matt Beer to explain exactly what went wrong for the furious Martin on The Race MotoGP Podcast, and make their predictions for how this epic season will finally be resolved next weekend.Bagnaia's Qatar GP could've been even better had he not been defeated in the victory fight by Fabio di Giannantonio - a man who pretty much no one would've tipped for a MotoGP race win just a few months ago, and who doesn't even look like he'll have a place on the 2024 MotoGP grid. We delve into the various rider market machinations that mean that's the case and try to plot some alternative scenarios that would get all the worthy riders in the field.And there's also plenty of debate about Aleix Espargaro and Franco Morbidelli's actions on and off track after their practice spat that dramatically spilled over.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MotoGP championship rivals Pecco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin went wheel to wheel again in the Malaysian Grand Prix, while also dodging other Ducatis, but the big theme of their weekend was tyre pressures and the potential for penalties over them.Are we at a point when the tyre pressure monitoring is going to decide the world title outcome while wrecking all the racing up to then and beyond?That's the worst-case scenario Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer consider on The Race MotoGP Podcast, as well as what can be done about it.How the title fight stands now, the spectacular resurgence of Enea Bastianini, a gung-ho Alex Marquez cameo and a sad MotoGP return for World Superbike steamroller Alvaro Bautista are also delved into.And as Honda's quest to find a 2024 Marc Marquez replacement takes yet another twist, we debate whether Luca Marini and Repsol Honda are right for each other, and what it means for everyone else who's been swept into this particular rider market saga.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidVroom is the better way to buy and sell used cars, so head over to Vroom.com NOW Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With just three grands prix to go, only 13 points separate Pecco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin in a 2023 MotoGP world championship that just keeps delivering twists.Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer debate how the denouement might unfold in the latest episode of The Race MotoGP Podcast.Will Bagnaia and Martin keep it clean? Will it go down to the very last race?Can Ducati afford not to find a way to put Martin in its 2024 factory team line-up if he's world champion?Marc Marquez's prospects in his final races at Honda, the miserable but ultra-close Honda vs Yamaha fight to avoid being last in the manufacturers' championship, and the surprise new contender to fill Marquez's Honda seat in 2024 are also discussed - pretty vehemently in some cases.Follow The Race on Twitter to take part in The Race F1 Cup!Check out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2023 MotoGP title fight got even more epic at the Thailand Grand Prix as Jorge Martin and Pecco Bagnaia (and interloper Brad Binder) produced the race of the season so far.Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer delve into how Martin emerged victorious, how Bagnaia limited the damage and the type of riders they are each evolving into as their championship battle progresses.How Binder nearly won on the bike that finished right at the back in all his stablemates' hands is also discussed, as is another weekend that showed both the best and worst of Marc Marquez.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MotoGP only managed one of its planned two races at the 2023 Australian Grand Prix, but the one that did happen was the best of the season so far.It was also a good candidate for being _the_ race where Jorge Martin blew his title bid. Was his choice of a soft tyre that collapsed on the final lap and dropped him from first to fifth arrogance, hubris or understandable? That's a key debate for Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer on The Race MotoGP Podcast.What happens next in the title fight now Pecco Bagnaia is 27 points clear is a hot topic too, and there's due appreciation for Johann Zarco on the weekend he finally gets a MotoGP race win - and finds out for sure that he's not going to get a factory Honda seat in 2024.The circumstances that led to the grand prix being moved to Saturday and the sprint not happening at all are of course analysed as well, along with some potential ideas for how that situation could be avoided in future seasons.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2023 MotoGP world championship battle flipped yet again during the Indonesian Grand Prix weekend, as Jorge Martin crashed out of a commanding GP race lead the day after his sprint race win had moved him to the head of the championship standings for the first time.That allowed Pecco Bagnaia to take the race win and retake the points lead.But should he feel triumphant given he did that from 13th on the grid, or just relieved at getting a gift given how much of a mess his weekend had looked up to that point across his Q1 exit and lack of sprint progress?That's one of the many debates Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer have on the Mandalika episode of The Race MotoGP Podcast.The latest element of the Marc Marquez 2024 move fallout is also discussed in depth, and this time the focus is on the curveball Honda's thrown by pursuing a pair of current Aprilia riders just when it seemed its solution to filling its Marquez gap was already under its nose. There's not a lot of agreement among our panellists on the wisdom of what seems to be unfolding there.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We asked you what you wanted to know about Marc Marquez's Honda exit, Gresini Ducati move, wider MotoGP future and all the repercussions - and you had plenty of questions for us.So Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer attempt to answer them on The Race MotoGP Podcast.Was Alex Marquez's early move to the team his brother is now joining the start of a secret long-term plan? How will Gresini have to change to accomodate Marquez? Why does anyone actually want to go to Honda now?And is Marquez already committed to KTM for 2025 and is that bad news for Jack Miller? We tackle all that and more.And with the MotoGP 2023 news flow relentless at the moment, we also discuss KTM's decision to commit to Pedro Acosta and Augusto Fernandez as its 2024 Gas Gas line-up at the expense of Pol Espargaro. That's a saga it's fair to say our panel has not been impressed by. News of outside title contender Marco Bezzecchi's ill-timed injury also features.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's actually happening: Marc Marquez is leaving Honda and will soon be announced as a 2024 Gresini Ducati MotoGP rider.The greatest rider of his era, walking out of a legendary and once-dominant team mid-contract to join what is currently Ducati's lowest-priority team to ride a year-old bike.Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer debate everything that has happened to lead to this seismic moment on an extra episode of The Race MotoGP Podcast - and the seeds of it go back further than you might realise.As well as reliving all that's gone wrong at Honda, we also look forward to how Marquez's Ducati future might look. Is Cal Crutchlow right to predict immediate MotoGP domination? And how will Ducati's existing library of star riders handle Marquez arriving in their midst?We also make no secret of our excitement over what this move means for MotoGP's future, make some predictions for what Honda's future looks like (including a punt both for when Joan Mir might win a title for it and when Marquez might return!) and reveal the consequences of Honda's announcement for Simon's dog and Val's shopping.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Any lingering doubts about the 2023 MotoGP world championship fight were erased over an ultra-tense Japanese Grand Prix weekend that ended with Pecco Bagnaia's lead over Jorge Martin down to just three points.And this wasn't because of some calamity for Bagnaia, but a pair of straight-fight defeats in close competition across wildly varying weather conditions.So as Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer debate on The Race MotoGP Podcast, we really do have a proper head to head title fight coming up over the remaining six rounds.As well as how both protagonists rode at Motegi, our panel discuss whether it's really sustainable for Martin's team Pramac to keep this up given its satellite status and what Ducati might do with its 2024 rider line-up if Martin actually beats Bagnaia to the title.Speaking of 2024 Ducati riders, the latest developments and rumours over Marc Marquez's future get plenty of airtime.There's also analysis of what could've been a very significant weekend for KTM's prospect, while also producing yet more discord over it's five-into-four 2024 rider dilemma.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just when it seemed he'd limited the championship damage caused by his terrifying Barcelona crash, defending champion Pecco Bagnaia threw the title race open again with a massive error in the inaugural Indian Grand Prix.Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer debate how costly that might be on The Race MotoGP Podcast. Might this be a mistake too far for Bagnaia, given Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin's growing form and confidence?There had been plenty of uncertainty about MotoGP's first visit to India all season, and Simon has a lot of tales to share about the fraught process of getting there and some of the quirks of the weekend (from striking marshals to monkeys in the pits) but is also convinced the Buddh race can actually become a MotoGP season highlight.We also discuss a surprise return to form for three past champions and the latest twists in the Marc Marquez 2024 ride saga as it goes into its potential crunch week.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our latest edition of 'Toby Talks To', host Toby Moody sits down for a chat with Carlos Checa, a rider who raced in 125s, 250s and 500s as the top class morphed into the category we know as MotoGP in 2002. The popular Spaniard opens up on the highs and lows of his career, including his two 500cc Grand Prix victories for Honda on home soil at Barcelona and Jarama, and the Superbike world title he claimed after moving on from MotoGP. He also discusses what it was like to be team mates with Valentino Rossi, and gives his opinion on countryman Marc Marquez's current plight with Honda - including his view on what he should do next...Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marc Marquez dominated yet another MotoGP weekend in off-track terms as he swept the paddock into a 'will he/won't he?'' frenzy at Misano with four days of speculation over whether he was about to break his factory Honda contract to join brother Alex on one of Gresini's year-old Ducatis for 2024.Then he tested Honda's 2024 bike on Monday and that prospect suddenly seemed a whole lot more realistic.Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer delve into all the drama Marquez created and assess the likelihood of the Gresini move actually happening in the Misano episode of The Race MotoGP Podcast.They explain why their levels of scepticism fluctuated through the weekend, and what the consequences might be for the rest of the Ducati line-up if Marquez made the leap. And our panel makes it pretty clear what outcome they all want to see from this storyline too.Another past champion at a struggling Japanese manufacturer team gets some attention too - Fabio Quartararo may not be leaving Yamaha before 2024, but is he going to spend 2024 trying to get out?The San Marino GP itself is also discussed - with some feisty debate over whether Jorge Martin's flawless domination was actually that impressive given how battered his main rivals were from the Catalan GP.Dani Pedrosa's amazing (but not amazing enough to satisfy one panellist) comeback and Takumi Takahashi's embarrassing one feature as well.And we also pay tribute to IRTA chief Mike Trimby after his sudden death in the middle of the race weekend, and explain just how huge his contribution to modern MotoGP was.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pecco Bagnaia's smooth progress towards another MotoGP world championship title was jeopardised in terrifying fashion when he was hit by Brad Binder's KTM after landing in the middle of the track following a first-lap high-side in the Catalan Grand Prix.Incredibly, it looks like Bagnaia escaped without any broken bones and may not even miss a race.The Race MotoGP Podcast panel Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer delve into exactly how the crash happened and the elements of fortune that meant the outcome wasn't much worse, as well as making their feelings on one aspect of the TV coverage of the aftermath very, very clear.Seconds before Bagnaia's crash unfolded. his team-mate Enea Bastianini triggered a pile-up of his own. Bastianini's riding, penalty, injury and what it means for his so far very tough time in the works Ducati team are discussed too.Away from all the Ducati drama, we also assess Aprilia's outstanding weekend, and where it goes from here. Does it have the riders to mount a title challenge? There's a bit of a difference of opinion over that...Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A few days on from a weekend in which he was the central figure in MotoGP's rider market for 2024, Johann Zarco speaks exclusively to The Race MotoGP Podcast about his decision to sign for LCR Honda.The 33-year-old Frenchman has elected to spurn a chance of continuing with MotoGP's most competitive bike in Ducati for a Honda 'project'. He explains why - and how the move came together - in a chat with podcast co-host Simon Patterson.Speaking at his home in France, Zarco also talks about how his failure at KTM impacted his thinking - and why he believes he will be more incorporated in the Honda RC213V's development than disillusioned predecessor Alex Rins was.He pontificates on having Marc Marquez as a Honda stablemate and candidly discusses the prospect of fighting for a factory Repsol Honda ride in the future.And he offers a detailed view of his mindset when it comes his pursuit of that ever-elusive first premier-class win. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Race MotoGP Podcast delves into the events of the series' 2023 Austrian Grand Prix weekend, in which the two actual races wound up relatively serene thanks to Pecco Bagnaia's dominance yet the rider market proved as lively as ever.Stand-in host Glenn Freeman is joined by Simon Patterson and Valentin Khorounzhiy, both fresh off chasing the latest developments in the Red Bull Ring paddock - where Johann Zarco's defection from the Ducati camp to Honda has been confirmed.They try to make sense of Zarco's move and a related (and perhaps even more surprising) development regarding Marco Bezzecchi's 2024 plans, one which suggests one of the best seats on next year's grid is now suddenly open.Also discussed is KTM tying down Brad Binder to a contract extension - on a weekend where Binder again proved an indispensable asset, while confusion over other places in the KTM/Gas Gas line-up continued to gather in the background.Of course, championship leader Bagnaia gets his share of plaudits - and the crew also debate the factors that influenced the quality of the racing on the weekend, as well as the causes of the Saturday multi-bike crash that Jorge Martin was penalised for.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the latest of our 'Toby Talks To' interview episodes, host Toby Moody sits down for a chat with legendary Spanish journalist Manuel Pecino - a veteran of 30 years in the MotoGP paddock and a man with the inside line on everything that's going on. There's plenty of chat about the old days, of course, but also a uniquely Spanish viewpoint on the careers of several Iberian giants of the sport, including Dani Pedrosa, Jorge Lorenzo and Sete Gibernau. Pecino also shares his forthright views on Marc Marquez and Honda, discusses the joy that Valentino Rossi brought to his life, explains what he thinks MotoGP could learn from professional tennis, and regales Toby with plenty of behind the scenes paddock stories...Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aprilia looked superb in MotoGP's British Grand Prix at Silverstone, with Aleix Espargaro's last-lap pass on Pecco Bagnaia's Ducati to secure victory from 12th on the grid the icing on a cake that featured three bikes in the top five.So why have it and Espargaro been unable to do that all season? And is this the start of a trend or does it feel like a circumstantial anomaly.Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy, special guest Dre Harrison and Matt Beer debate that in the Silverstone episode of The Race MotoGP Podcast.They also look at yet more wild developments in the rider market, including very revealing information from all parties in a potential Ducati reshuffle that features Johann Zarco potentially being edged aside despite doing nothing wrong right now.Championship leader Pecco Bagnaia gets his usual late-podcast mention for managing to shrug off wobbles without his points status looking in jeopardy, but the absolute state of Marc Marquez and Fabio Quartararo's weekends had fewer glass-half-full elements.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidRight now, you can get $50 off your purchase of $500 or more with code THERACE at bluenile.comTo get 15% off go to mudwtr.com/therace to support the show and use code THERACE for 15% off Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The prospect of an exodus from the Honda ranks is the hot topic as MotoGP resumes following its summer break with the British Grand Prix at Silverstone this weekend.With Alex Rins linked to Yamaha, Joan Mir linked to Gresini Ducati and the LCR team linked to KTM, plus the door already being potentially open to a Marc Marquez exit, it's hard to see who'll be left riding Hondas in MotoGP in 2024 right now.Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer make their predictions on that front, and look at the likelihood and potential wisdom of the mooted Rins, Mir and LCR moves too.They also look ahead to a big MotoGP rule change coming into effect at Silverstone, and ask whether Casey Stoner's recent huge criticisms of modern MotoGP were fair.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode we’re delighted to bring you another ‘Toby Talks To’ conversation, which this week sees host Toby Moody sit down for a lively chat with 1987 500cc world champion Wayne Gardner. In typically forthright style, Wayne talks us through his remarkable career, including how he got his move to HRC, what it was like to ride bikes that would frequently high side, and how he won the world championship in 1987.He also talks about his great rivals of the time, the role he played in bringing Mick Doohan to Honda, and why he chose to bow out of Grand Prix racing after the 1992 season, with a subsequent move into car racing.There is also chat about Casey Stoner, how Gardner nurtured his son Remy’s fledgling career on bikes, and what he would change about modern MotoGP.And finally, Gardner shares his thoughts on the plight of his former team, Honda, giving his view on what needs to change to bring them back to the front. Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidHead over to vroom.com now to see what your current ride is worth and check out thousands of cars to find your next one! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode of The Race MotoGP podcast, Toby Moody speaks to Stuart Pringle, managing director of Silverstone circuit and the man responsible for running both the Formula 1 AND MotoGP British Grands Prix. During this Toby Talks To chat, Pringle gives his verdict on this year’s well-attended F1 Grand Prix at the track, before going on to explain how staging a MotoGP race differs from staging cars. He also talks about adapting the track for bike racing, dealing with Dorna and Liberty Media, the Circuit of Wales fiasco, and gives his view on why MotoGP shouldn’t be afraid to borrow from the F1 playbook. And finally, he responds to criticism from some fans about recent developments at Silverstone.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the increasing likelihood of a Marc Marquez/Honda MotoGP split a sign that Honda didn't learn from the breakdown of its relationship with Valentino Rossi?That's just one of the many, many listener questions Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer tackle in the latest episode of The Race MotoGP Podcast.Whether Fabio Quartararo should share the blame for Yamaha getting lost, what Miguel Oliveira's season might look like without injuries, the 2024 Honda line-up and the options for improving the grand prix weekend schedule are also on their list.And one particular mysterious under performer who was once tipped for great things prompted a particularly large number of questions.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidRight now, you can get $50 off your purchase of $500 or more with code THERACE at bluenile.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the latest edition of Toby Talks To, Toby Moody sits down for an in-depth chat with Simone Battistella, long-time rider manager to the likes of MotoGP legend Andrea Dovizioso and Superbike World Champion Alvaro Bautista. They discuss how Simone got into rider management before diving into some of the specifics of the job: How a contract is negotiated, how bonuses are structured, the setting up secret meetings, and even the influence of pushy parents. They also talk about ‘get out clauses’ in contracts, particularly in relation to Marc Marquez’s situation at Honda, with Simone giving his opinion on what the Spaniard should do next. There are also some great stories about managing ‘Dovi’, including ones about the clandestine meeting at the beginning of his MotoGP journey with Ducati, the inside story of their divorce, and the parties that followed significant moments in the Italian's career...Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Honda admitting it won't make Marc Marquez see out his 2024 contract if he wants to leave, The Race MotoGP Podcast delves into a weekend of rider market bombshells and looks at what might happen next.Marquez didn't even race (again) in the Dutch Grand Prix, yet his weekend of clumsy crashes, forlorn midfield performance and seismic media sessions is top of Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer's agenda in our post-race episode.The possibility of Alex Rins or Joan Mir also exiting Honda and whether Assen Moto2 race winner Jake Dixon could step straight into a 2024 factory MotoGP seat is discussed too.Eventually we also make it onto talking about the racing itself, and the very comfortable position Pecco Bagnaia has going into the summer break (despite Marco Bezzecchi's best efforts), plus Brad Binder's astounding deja vu podium loss.Later in the summer break we'll be answering listeners' questions on all things MotoGP 2023, but particularly any topics or riders you feel we haven't talked about enough so far this year. Send your questions by email or voice note to [email protected] The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Before last weekend, Marc Marquez had never lost a MotoGP race he'd started at the Sachsenring. What a contrast the 2023 German Grand Prix was: five crashes (three of them within 20 minutes in a single qualifying session), a trundle backwards to a finish outside the points in the sprint and then a non-start in the GP after a final crash in the warm-up.So is it game over for the Marquez/Honda relationship? That's certainly what The Race MotoGP podcast panel Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer reckon.Marquez's astonishing(ly bad) weekend is the biggest topic of conversation in our Sachsenring episode, from his actions after the dramatic practice crash with Johann Zarco through to his subdued exit from the weekend just before the main race was due to start.But those who actually contested the grand prix do get a look-in too, as we celebrate an amazing battle between Jorge Martin and Pecco Bagnaia for victory, assess what might happen next in the title fight they're now in, and consider the chance of Martin edging out Enea Bastianini for a shock move to the works Ducati fold alongside Bagnaia in 2024.That great race followed criticism from some riders on Saturday of how "boring" MotoGP has become. Do they still have a point? And is the level of domination Ducati's now achieving - as it took eight of the top nine places in the German GP - as problematic as it might seem? We debate all that too.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidGo to Indochino.com and use code RACE to get 10% off any purchase of $399 or moreSign up for a Chime Checking Account today to link your paycheck. It only takes two minutes and doesn’t affect your credit score. Get started at chime.com/theraceTo get 15% off go to mudwtr.com/therace to support the show and use code THERACE for 15% offStay cool and dry all summer with Birddogs and get a FREE Yeti-style tumbler at birddogs.com/athletic use promo code ATHLETIC at checkout Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pecco Bagnaia dominated on the track during MotoGP's Italian Grand Prix at Mugello, but Marc Marquez generated most of the headlines off it.From getting under Bagnaia's skin with his qualifying antics to raising the biggest questions yet over his Honda future with the remarks he made when questioned about the spate of crashes and injuries for its riders, Marquez gave Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer plenty to debate on The Race MotoGP Podcast.Bagnaia's controlled wins at the head of Ducati-dominated results are analysed too, as well as the intriguing battle developing in his immediate wake.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidHead to factormeals.com/therace50 and use code THERACE50 to get 50% off your first box! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s podcast, Toby Moody returns for an extended chat with Chaz Davies, World Supersport champion, a race winner 32 times in World Superbikes, and a regular for many years in Grand Prix racing. The popular Welsh rider discusses why he was always likely to get into motorcycle racing, cutting his teeth alongside the likes of Casey Stoner and Cal Crutchlow as a teenager, racing under Alberto Puig, and getting onto the Grand Prix grid at just 15 years of age.Along the way he recounts his unforgettable debut in Suzuka, why he only spent a year racing 125s, the amazing story of how he had to sit his school exams above a pit box at Mugello, and his eventual move to racing in America - a move he believes was the making of him.He also reminisces about his incredibly daunting short-notice MotoGP debut at Laguna Seca in 2007, the crowning glory of becoming Supersport world champion in 2011, and his spectacular World Superbike career. Plus, there’s chat about his retirement from racing, his current life as a rider coach, and what’s in his personal bike collection…Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pecco Bagnaia is leading the MotoGP world championship. Apart from that, very little has gone as predicted in the 2023 season so far - including the fact that Bagnaia's lead is just one point.While MotoGP takes its spring break, The Race MotoGP Podcast picks the biggest shocks of what we've seen so far in this fraught season.The abysmal form of two marques (and some riders) who really should be doing much better, the surprise packages emerging as Bagnaia's title threats and the worryingly high injury tally are among the topics debated by Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our brand-new app on iOS or AndroidEmail the show via [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The latest episode in our 'Toby talks' interview series sees Toby Moody sit down for a chat with old friend Sylvain Guintoli, a world champion in two different categories (World Superbike and Endurance World Championship) and a man who has raced and tested MotoGP bikes extensively.In typical jovial style, the Frenchman discusses the highs and lows of his career; his start in 250s, his move into MotoGP, his short spell in British Superbikes, his championship-winning campaign in World Superbikes, and his latter day move into MotoGP punditry.Along the way there are amusing stories behind the various deals he’s signed over the years, anecdotes about overtaking Valentino Rossi on home soil, and a vivid description of what it takes to get a MotoGP bike off the line quickly. Amongst other things, there's also discussion about his crucial role developing Suzuki's 2020 title-winning MotoGP bike, whether countryman Johan Zarco will ever win a MotoGP race, and what makes Marc Marquez so special.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our brand-new app on iOS or AndroidEmail the show via [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MotoGP 2023 continued to be a story of collisions, penalties and stewarding controversies - but also epic racing and title battle twists - at the French Grand Prix.Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer dive into the incidents in The Race MotoGP Podcast, from championship leader Pecco Bagnaia's clash with Maverick Vinales to the not-actually-a-collision that's earned Alex Marquez a grid drop, plus some incredible paddock debate between the racers and the officials.They also tackle the renewed title battle and Le Mans winner Marco Bezzecchi's potential role in it, what Marc Marquez's fast but eventful return means for Honda, and an absolutely abject weekend for Yamaha and home hero Fabio Quartararo.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our brand-new app on iOS or AndroidGet 15% off go to mudwtr.com/therace to support the show and use code THERACE for 15% off Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the latest episode of our series of in-depth conversations with paddock people, host Toby Moody sits down for a wide-ranging chat with former Suzuki MotoGP team principal (and current team principal of the Yamaha factory World Superbike squad) Paul Denning. They discuss the differences between managing teams in MotoGP and World Superbikes, as well as the subtle cultural differences between the different Japanese marques Denning has worked for. Denning also goes in to depth on securing the iconic Rizla sponsorship, the merits of Kenny Roberts Jr and John Hopkins as riders, and why things didn’t work out for Ben Spies at Suzuki. He also talks at length about his star rider in WSB, Toprak Razgatlioglu, explaining what makes him so special before answering the question every fan wants to know about if and when he’ll make the switch to MotoGP.Denning also explains what it was like to go from watching riders like Loris Capirossi on TV to becoming his boss, reveals which riders he came very close to signing to Suzuki, and reminisces on his standout moments in MotoGP, including Chris Vermeulen’s victory at Le Mans in 2007. Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or Android Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With red flags for scary pile-ups in both races, another rider injured and others lucky not to be, the MotoGP field had another bruising weekend at Jerez.Simon Patterson, Valentin Khorounzhiy and Matt Beer try to untangle why the 2023 season's injury list is so high and what's leading to this spate of crashes in The Race MotoGP Podcast.They also debate race direction's responses to it, after a weekend when the officials weren't shy about issuing penalties.As Pecco Bagnaia got his championship defence back on course with a clinical performance, they look at whether KTM might now be the only rival bike Ducati should actually fear, and delve into the growing list of teams and riders whose 2023 is turning out far, far worse than they had expected - headlined by Fabio Quartararo and Yamaha.Follow The Race on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookCheck out our latest videos on YouTubeDownload our app on iOS or AndroidGo to grammarly.com/GO to download and learn more about GrammarlyGO! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.