Argomenti trattati
In a thrilling display of speed and skill, Matteo Bertelle emerged as the standout performer during the Moto3 World Championship practice session held on Friday at the Chang International Circuit in Thailand. The young Italian rider, representing LEVELUP-MTA, clocked an impressive lap time of .931 seconds, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating weekend of racing.
Setting the pace in Moto3
Bertelle’s performance not only topped the practice charts but also showcased his potential as a formidable contender in the championship. His ability to navigate the 2.82-mile (4.55 km) track with precision and speed left his competitors trailing. Following closely behind was Stefano Nepa from SIC58 Squadra Corse, who finished with a time of .166 seconds, while Jose Antonio Rueda of Red Bull KTM Ajo secured the third spot with a time of .191 seconds. This competitive spirit among the riders sets the tone for an exciting season ahead.
Challenging conditions and strategic improvements
The practice session was not without its challenges. Riders faced tougher conditions compared to the cooler morning temperatures, which reflected in their lap times. However, as the session progressed, most riders found their rhythm, with Bertelle making significant improvements on his 14th lap. His performance was particularly noteworthy, as he managed to maintain a lead of two tenths over his closest rivals, demonstrating both talent and determination.
Rookies making their mark
Among the top performers, Angel Piqueras, the 2024 Rookie of the Year, rounded out the top five, showcasing his adaptability as a new KTM rider. Despite facing setbacks, including a late crash at Turn 5, Adrian Fernandez from Leopard Racing secured a spot in the top 14, proving his resilience. Meanwhile, Taiyo Furusato from Honda Team Asia also made it through despite a crash earlier in the session. The emergence of these young talents adds an exciting dynamic to the Moto3 grid.
As the riders prepare for Free Practice 2 and the first qualifying sessions of the season, all eyes will be on Bertelle, who has established himself as the rider to beat. With the anticipation building, fans are eager to see how this young star will perform in the upcoming races. The Moto3 championship is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, and Bertelle’s impressive start is just the beginning.