Mugello was a pivotal point in the title chase, as Quartararo capitalised on a Bagnaia DNF
The magnificent Mugello once again played host to the Italian GP, and it turned out to be a pivotal point in the 2021 World Championship title chase.
Polesitter Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was searching for his third victory of the season, while Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) was still hunting his first in factory red. Pecco got an early lead and was looking immense. But the Italian’s home Grand Prix victory dreams were shattered when he crashed on Lap 2, leaving Quartararo to pick up the P1 baton.
The Frenchman eventually took a commanding win, as the battle for second raged on. Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) came out on top to hand himself and KTM their first podium of the season, with Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) claiming third – a welcome return to the rostrum for the Spaniard.
In the grand scheme of things, however, none of this mattered. The tragic loss of Jason Dupasquier was the only thing anyone was thinking about during a highly emotional, immensely sad, and incredibly tough weekend. Jason, his family, and friends continue to be at the forefront of our minds, as we race on in his memory.
