Pol Espargaró and Valentino Rossi have analyzed the key factors of the Catalan Grand Prix, pointing out that Barcelona can bring surprises due to the current high level of parity among the bikes. Rossi highlights that electronics have leveled the playing field, allowing all riders to be very close in lap times, unlike previous seasons where Ducati clearly dominated. The grid arrives without a clear favorite.
Electronics and chassis: the new balance that changes the rules 🏍️
According to Rossi, the evolution of electronics has reduced the differences between manufacturers. Before, Ducati gained an advantage with its engine and aerodynamics; today, traction control and braking management systems allow Yamaha, Honda, and KTM to compete at the same level. Pol Espargaró adds that the Montmeló asphalt demands traction and braking stability, areas where Ducati was previously superior. Now, any factory can win if it gets the setup right.
Parity is such that even the officials doubt who the leader is 😅
With so much parity, teams no longer know whether to celebrate a fast lap or wait for the rider next to them to have a bad day. Rossi jokes that now the key is not having the most powerful bike, but remembering to turn off the autopilot at the start. Pol, for his part, suggests that if the trend continues, we will soon see mechanics running behind the bikes to push them through slow corners.