A thrilling comeback story unfolded at the Australian Grand Prix, where Aprilia's Marco Bezzecchi dominated the sprint race, ending Ducati's impressive streak.
Bezzecchi, fresh from a costly mistake in Indonesia, showed his resilience by claiming a decisive victory. He passed Raul Ferandez's Trackhouse Aprilia with three laps remaining, securing his third sprint win in four races. Fernandez held on for second, with Pedro Acosta completing the podium for KTM.
The race started with a bang as Alex Marquez shot from sixth to the front, but his lead was short-lived. Fernandez seized the opportunity at Miller Corner, taking the lead with a powerful launch from the second row. Marquez's early advantage didn't last, as he dropped behind Bezzecchi, setting up an intense battle between Aprilia teammates.
Bezzecchi's pace was relentless. Despite a minor error on lap 6, he quickly recovered, halving the deficit on the next lap. By lap 9, he was back in striking distance, and on lap 10, he made the decisive move at Southern Loop, leaving Fernandez in his wake.
Bezzecchi's win was a commanding 3.1 seconds, securing his second consecutive sprint victory. Fernandez also achieved back-to-back sprint podiums. The final spot on the rostrum went to KTM's Pedro Acosta, who held off a late charge from local hero Jack Miller.
The race marked a significant moment as it was the first time since the sprint format's introduction in 2023 that a Ducati failed to finish in the top three. Ducati's struggles were further highlighted by Gresini's Marquez dropping to sixth and Indonesia winner Fermin Aldeguer's late crash.
Meanwhile, Yamaha's Quartararo managed seventh, beating the top factory Honda of Luca Marini. KTM wildcard Pol Espargaro and Tech3's Enea Bastianini completed the top 10.
Factory Ducati rider Francesco Bagnaia had another challenging race, finishing a distant 19th, ahead only of test rider Michele Pirro, who was standing in for Marc Marquez.
The Australian GP sprint results showcase Bezzecchi's dominance, with a comprehensive victory. Fernandez and Acosta joined him on the podium, while Miller's fourth place was his best finish of the 2025 season.
What a race! Bezzecchi's comeback and Ducati's unexpected struggle make for an intriguing storyline. Who do you think will dominate the next race? Share your thoughts in the comments!
