The Gresini rider's quest for a factory Ducati MotoGP seat: Fermin Aldeguer's journey and prospects
Fermin Aldeguer's journey in MotoGP has been a rollercoaster, with a mix of highs and lows. After a promising start, he faced challenges in his rookie season, but a recent surge in form has raised expectations. With a strong late-race pace and a knack for making bold moves, Aldeguer is making a strong case for a factory Ducati seat.
The Early Struggles and Breakthrough
Aldeguer's transition to MotoGP was not without its hurdles. His initial performances were underwhelming, with a focus on learning the ropes of the new tyres and the Boscoscuro chassis. However, a breakthrough came at the Austin GP, where he showcased his potential by charging from 12th on the grid to fifth place, leaving a lasting impression.
Late-Race Mastery and the Click Moment
One of Aldeguer's standout traits is his ability to come alive in the late stages of races, reminiscent of Enea Bastianini's factory Ducati prowess. This was evident at the Austrian GP, where he recovered from an eighth-place start to finish just over a second behind the race winner, Marc Marquez. His confidence-boosting performance in Austin marked a turning point, as he felt 'super good' and was able to close the gap to Franco Morbidelli.
The Quest for Factory Ducati
Aldeguer's sights are set on a factory Ducati seat, and he has a contract that could make this a reality. However, the path is not without obstacles. Marc Marquez, in peak form, and Francesco Bagnaia, despite his patchy season, are both strong contenders. The real challenge lies within the Gresini garage, where Alex Marquez, a younger and already factory-supported rider, poses a significant threat.
The Future is Bright, but Challenges Remain
Aldeguer's future in MotoGP looks promising, but there are still weaknesses to address. His qualifying performance needs improvement, and he aims to start closer to the front to avoid the struggle of charging through the field. The current MotoGP format, with its emphasis on Friday practice and Q2 entry, presents a challenge that Aldeguer and his crew chief, Frankie Carchedi, are determined to overcome.
The Road Ahead: A Learning Curve and a Potential Breakthrough
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