BAGNAIA FEARS PHILLIP ISLAND WEATHER COULD DISRUPT THE AUSTRALIAN GP

Francesco Bagnaia arrived at Phillip Island without setting a firm target for the Australian Grand Prix, saying his prospects would depend on how well he felt on his Ducati. The forecast for a sharp change in conditions later in the weekend has added to his caution.

The Italian’s memories of last year’s race offer little reassurance: he was 13th before crashing near the finish. Asked what result he expected this time, Bagnaia said, “We’ll see. It will be more or less like in recent years. The weather is good on Thursday and Friday, then changes completely for the rest of the weekend.”

Phillip Island’s fast, flowing layout demands confidence in the bike, and Bagnaia said he first needed to find that feeling. “I want to enjoy the weekend. But to enjoy it here, you need a very good feeling with the bike. I hope that will be the case, but honestly, it will be difficult,” he said.

Heavy rain is forecast for Saturday and Sunday, raising concerns that conditions could disrupt riding. Bagnaia said the weather outlook made it uncertain whether sessions could go ahead, though the riders would have to adapt and try to race. He does not see rain as an opportunity to improve his chances: “It’s worse, because if you have no grip and no feeling, it’s even worse in the wet. I hope for dry conditions.”

Bagnaia also addressed uncertainty over whether the Qatar race should take place amid unrest in the region, stressing that the safety of everyone involved must come first. While the situation is currently considered safe, he noted it could change from one day to the next. “I hope Dorna is working to give us full safety if we go there. If the situation isn’t safe, they will be the first not to take a risk. I can’t say more than that,” he said.