Everything's bigger in the US... even victories and defeats. Bezzecchi will need a degree in math to keep track of all the records he set. Martin already has one in medicine after all the injuries he's recovered from. Aprilia is gloating, while Ducati has time for some soul-searching. If even Austin can't make Marquez shine, Borgo Panigale... we've got a problem.
THE GOOD – One waves to his mom, the other offers a prayer on his knees: those two fine young men, Bezzecchi and Martin, have their own way of celebrating another day to remember. The two black knights are only intimidating on the track. without their helmets, they could even move you to tears. They have a month to enjoy what they've achieved so far, to savor their top two positions in the standings. They're the best duo in the MotoGP. Too bad for the others.
THE UGLY – The only bottle of Prosecco was popped for Bagnaia's podium in the Sprint. The Borgo Panigale cellar was always empty, yet now it's filling up with unopened bottles. Di Giannantonio gave it a shot, but that wasn't enough. Marc Marquez can't pull it off even on his favorite track. Pecco gave us hope before fading away. After three races, the new centennial red on the Desmosedici looks increasingly lackluster.
THE BAD – Every four years, the Olympics take place, the World Cup is played, and an Italian rider wins in the Moto3. Our patience was bound to run out, but, luckily, Guido Pini stepped in to calm us down. There was no better time or place to fulfill his American dream... just don’t make us wait too long for the encore.
THE DISAPPOINTMENT – We're looking for news on Alex Marquez. Last year, he was often on the podium. However, lately, he's vanished without a trace. So, if you spot him - dressed in blue and riding a bike of the same color - contact the Gresini team and Ducati for a reward.
THE CONFIRMATION – For someone used to winning, a single point in the World Championship doesn't mean much, but it was Razgatlioglu's first in the MotoGP, and that's one you never forget it. However, there was little else worth remembering from the Austin GP. In fact, the final gap is one to forget. But he's growing, doesn't get discouraged, and was the best Yamaha rider. These days, we have to settle for that.
THE ERROR – Joan Mir is fast on the Honda. The problem is, he never sees the finish line. We appreciate his drive, but real points are awarded after the checkered flag. The ones on the mechanic's loyalty card don't count for the championship.
THE OVERTAKE – We award the consolation prize to Ai Ogura. The Japanese rider deserved to give his team a podium finish in his home race. His Aprilia’s engine decided otherwise, but his overtakes are unforgettable.
THE SURPRISE – The only regret is not seeing him on the Sprint podium. His bronze medal was awarded late, but we were still able to admire Enea Bastianini on the track, and that hasn't happened in a while. The Beast is back. Continuing to be a lamb near Easter could've been dangerous.
THE ANECDOTE – Pedro Acosta equaled with Colin Edwards. They're the only two riders to have stood on the podium more times (12) without winning a race. Of course, Bezzecchi can boast other records... far more pleasant ones.
THE I TOLD YOU SO – Bagnaia after the podium in the Sprint: "It's too early to say if I've hit a reset. Let's wait until Sunday night." Sometimes, being right isn't pleasant.