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Beyond his friendship with Martin Aleix Espargaro is convinced: the 2024 title is in his compatriot's hands. In the lead with 341 points against Bagnaia's 317, for the future Honda test rider only a few glaring mistakes could overturn a situation that seems to be well mapped out.
All credit to the professional and human growth of the Pramac bearer that has allowed him to arrive at this point of the year with a different attitude than in 2023. An all-round progression that, according to the rider from Granollers, was blatantly shown in the recent GP of Emilia Romagna when the 26-year-old was beaten in the sprint by Bastianini with a maneuver that caused discussion.
"I was very impressed with how he cashed in on the commissioners' decision not to punish Enea's overtaking. I would have been very angry in his place, while he reacted well publicly by even shaking his hand. Personally, I don't know if I would have done the same knowing that I had been denied success as a result of contact. When we came home in the aero he was happy. He is very mature, so he should just be applauded," the Iberian's remark to AS.
These behaviors are thus proof of the level he has reached. "He is focused, with little stress, ready to enjoy life. Even when there was the agreement with Aprilia he was happy and asked me many questions. I see him as a champion," the 35-year-old's judgment also convinced that Ducati will not play dirty games to favor Pecco.
"I think they will behave cleanly, but you never know. Gigi dall'Igna is very serious and professional, so I would hope so. The championship can only lose Jorge. Ve' the strongest and now we go to tracks where he is usually competitive, from here to Indonesia, to Australia, Japan and even Valencia flies," the prediction.
Asked finally about possible strategies to help his friend get the cup he said, "I would love to leave racing with a win, but if the fight was between me and Martin I would be very careful. Would I have blocked Bastianini? No, because if they had both fallen I would not have forgiven myself."
Automatic Translation by DeepL
