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MotoGP Finale Under Big Threat: Martin vs Bagnaia May Not Happen in Valencia

This year's MotoGP is very different unlike last year as the penultimate race of the season is underway and we still don't know who the champion will be.

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Venkatakrishnan
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MotoGP Finale

(Source: MotoGP)

The Spanish city of Valencia was heavily hit by a tragic flood, damaging many lives and property. Now, the season finale is under big threat as the leadership group is looking at alternative options for the race. Dorna has officially announced that they are planning to cancel the event, which would have been the last race this year and was scheduled to take place on the November 15-17 weekend. Meetings are happening between the organisers and the leadership committee over possible alternatives for the race.

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The last Grand prix of this year at Valencia is set to be replaced by many number circuits like Qatar, Portimao, Jerez, and Barcelona as emergency options to host the season finale. If any of the venues above were selected then the Season finale will happen on November 24 Sunday. Many riders including Marc Marquez, Martin and Bagnaia are not willing to race in Valencia.

The FIM (Federation Internationale de Motorcyclisme) has already communicated this plan to several riders in the Paddock. If the Dorna leadership committee takes the decision to move the race away from Valencia then Pecoo Bagnaia and Martin will be fighting for the championship title somewhere else.

MotoGP has officially released a statement regarding the issue which stated “MotoGP stands with the Community of Valencia following the devastating floods that have affected the area. Our hearts are with all those who have been lost and those who have lost so much.

After carefully weighing up the potential positive impact of MotoGP racing in Valencia on delayed dates versus ensuring no single resource is diverted from the recovery efforts by the presence of MotoGP, the championship and local authorities have been obliged to cancel the 2024 Valencia GP. Any further information regarding the season finale will be confirmed as soon as possible.”

'I wont go there'- Francesco Bagnaia

Francesco Bagnaia the reigning world champion was very critical about not racing the final grand prix in Valencia even if it cost his world title. He said “I hope they take into consideration the fact that on an ethical level, with what is happening, it is not the right thing to do. Even at the cost of losing the ultimate goal for me. Which is the title, I’m not willing to race in Valencia.”

The Malaysian Grand prix is underway and the championship fight could even end this weekend considering the points each rider scores in sprint and the race. To seal his first-ever MotoGP title Martin needs to score 21 points more than his title rival Francesco Bagnaia in the Malaysian race.

MOTOGP Francesco Bagnaia Jorge Martin Valencia