MotoGP: Bagnaia Leads Friday Practice In Barcelona

Francesco Bagnaia began his quest for the 2023 MotoGP world title with a blistering start to the Spanish Grand Prix weekend, leading FP1 and FP2 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

The Ducati rider was in fine form throughout Friday, setting the pace in both sessions and looking comfortable on the new track surface. Maverick Viñales (Aprilia) and Aleix Espargaró (Aprilia) joined Bagnaia on the podium in both sessions, with the latter only 0.029s off the Italian's time in FP2.

Bagnaia's time of 1:39.426 in FP2 was nearly three-tenths of a second faster than anyone else, and he believes he has the pace to challenge for victory this weekend.

"I'm really happy with how today went," said Bagnaia. "The bike is working well, and I'm feeling comfortable on the new track surface. We still have some work to do, but I'm confident we can be strong this weekend."

Viñales was also pleased with his day's work, finishing second in both sessions and looking increasingly comfortable on the Aprilia. The Spaniard is still searching for his first MotoGP victory, but he believes he has the potential to challenge for it this weekend.

"I'm feeling good on the bike, and I'm happy with the progress we're making," said Viñales. "We're still learning, but I think we have the pace to challenge for the podium this weekend."

Espargaró was another rider who impressed on Friday, finishing third in both sessions. The Spaniard is looking to build on his strong start to the season, and he believes he has the potential to challenge for the championship this year.

"I'm really happy with how the bike is working," said Espargaró. "We have a good base, and we're confident we can keep improving. I think we have the potential to challenge for the championship this year."

The Spanish Grand Prix will take place on Sunday, May 7th. Bagnaia will be looking to extend his championship lead, while Viñales and Espargaró will be hoping to challenge for their first MotoGP victories.