Pecco Bagnaia wins the Japanese MotoGP sprint race as Acosta crashes out - Results

Pecco Bagnaia capitalized on a costly error by Pedro Acosta to secure victory in the Japanese MotoGP sprint race at Motegi on Saturday, adding more excitement to the thrilling 2024 season. The race saw fierce competition and a dramatic twist when the young Spanish rider crashed out after dominating much of the contest.

Acosta, who had started from pole position, initially lost ground to Bagnaia and his Ducati teammate Enea Bastianini but regained the lead by lap 3 of the 12-lap sprint. The trio was locked in a tight battle until Acosta began to create a gap, seemingly on his way to victory.

Here is the video:

A MONUMENTAL MISTAKE FROM THE ROOKIE! 💥@37_pedroacosta crashes out of the lead at Turn 7 😱#JapaneseGP 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/mswvSl7Tsr

— MotoGP™🏁 (@MotoGP) October 5, 2024

However, with just five laps to go, Acosta made a critical mistake entering Turn 5. His GASGAS machine low-sided, sending him sliding off the track and leaving him visibly frustrated as his hopes for a win evaporated.

Bagnaia seized the opportunity, taking control of the race and maintaining his position at the front until the checkered flag. Meanwhile, the crash not only ended Acosta's chances but also opened the door for Marc Marquez to snatch the final spot on the podium.

Jorge Martin fights back

Marquez, who had already been stripped of pole position earlier due to track limits, engaged in a fierce duel with Bastianini for second place. Despite the pressure from Marquez, Bastianini held his ground, with both riders pushing hard to challenge Bagnaia.

Further back, Jorge Martin, the current title leader, had a tough qualifying session after a crash placed him in 11th on the grid. Despite the setback, Martin fought back to finish in fourth, keeping his championship lead intact, though now reduced to just 15 points ahead of Bagnaia.

Here is the final standing: