Repsol Honda rider Dani Pedrosa won today’s Malaysian GP to lead team-mate Marc Marquez who had an intense battle with third place man Yamaha’s Jorge Lorenzo,
the Mallorcan said he could not keep with the pace of the Honda machine and his hopes of retaining his world title are diminishing.
Valentino Rossi took fourth, while a battle to the very last second between GO&FUN Honda Gresini rider and Monster Tech3’s Cal Crutchlow with the Honda rider prevailing. It was another good show for rookie Bradley Smith on his Monster Yamaha Tech3 machine who crossed the finish line in seventh. Ducati’s Andrea Dovizioso claimed eighth with top CRT Aleix Espargaro just behind. Ben Spies replacement Yonny Hernandez rounded out the top ten.
Colin Edwards, Hector Barbera and Michael Laverty all jump started resulted in the dreaded ride-through penalty. Ducati’s Nicky Hayden retired with a technical issue. LCR Honda Stefan Bradl did not take part in today’s Race as he suffered a broken ankle he has undergone surgery, the German hopes to be at the next round in Australia.
Marquez could claim the World title at the next round in Phillip Island and will be the first rookie to do so in thirty-five years, although Lorenzo and Pedrosa could still win the title. But with a 43 point title lead it’s Marquez’s title to lose.
World Championship Standings –
Marc Marquez – 298 Points
Jorge Lorenzo – 255 Points
Dani Pedrosa – 244 Points By Laura Turner
