An unprecedented podium, a focused Alex Marquez, an unlucky Pecco Bagnaia, and an impalpable Aprilia: Sepang showcased surprises and confirmations before returning to Europe, on a Sunday marked by the terrible accident between Rueda and Dettwiler.
THE GOOD - There's always one Marquez in the MotoGP. With Marc at home, Alex was there keeping the good name of the family going. On Saturday, he secured a one-two finish in the World Championship for both brothers. On Sunday, he won the race. For years, they've accused him of living on reflected glory, but Alex can definitely shine on his own.
THE UGLY - We might have been spoiled up until now, but the Aprilia in Sepang looked like a bad copy of the one from the last GPs. Maybe it took a week off after its recent exertions. We'll see what happens in Portimão.
THE BAD - Hiding behind the old maxim that "the show must always go on" is too easy. And, in Sepang, they seemed to be looking for entertainment at all costs. Throwing young Moto3 riders onto the track after what had happened rught before was unnecessary and maybe even dangerous. Even in a world that thrives on speed, you sometimes have to be able to take a step back.
THE DISAPPOINTMENT - All that was missing was a flat tire to complete his 2025 blacklist, and Pecco Bagnaia checked that box off as well. Now, all he needs is a locust invasion in the pit and a meteorite falling on the parts case.
THE CONFIRMATION - Another podium for Honda, which has been toned and rejuvenated the past few weeks. The only flaw is never seeing Luca Marini reap the fruits of his labor. An unfavorable qualification, a wrong tire, a race episode, and Honda ends up on the podium, but always with someone else.
THE ERROR - The team had made a mistake in Indonesia. In Malaysia, he did. Now that they're tied, Manuel Gonzalez had better get back to being the rider we had come to know at the beginning of the season. Otherwise, bye bye World Championship.
THE OVERTAKE - There must always be a place for Pedro Acosta. In a MotoGP where everyone wins, he's the only one (for the moment) who can't. Besides his rivals, he also has to struggle with his KTM. Let's at least give him this consolation prize.
THE SURPRISE - Look who's back. A Japanese on the podium in the Moto3. Taiyo Furusato managed to win at the 77th attempt and also gave Honda its first satisfaction this year. Let this be a good omen.
THE ANECDOTE - Honda has already been on the podium four times this year, something it hasn't managed since 2021 (when they were five at the end of the season).
THE I TOLD YOU SO - Bezzecchi ended up in the Q1 on Friday night: "I'll have to turn it into an advantage." Easier said than done...