SEPANG: Defending champion Francesco Bagnaia is relishing the pressure of leading the MotoGP title race going into the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia, which starts here tomorrow.
The Ducati Lenovo rider heads into the round with only a 13-point advantage over second-placed Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) in the premier class standings. Only three rounds remain this season.
Bagnaia, better known by his nickname Pecco, made it clear that he thrives under high-pressure situations.
"I think it's a pleasure to have this kind of pressure — we are fighting for the title," said Bagnaia during the pre-event presser here today.
"Without pressure, it means that you do not care too much about what you are doing.
"I think pressure is normal, I think it is a great fuel which we must use to feel the 'angriness' (euphoria) of being a champion again."
The Italian is optimistic of a strong outing at Sepang, a track he has won twice at.
"It (Sepang) is one of my favourite tracks and I have good memories here," Bagnaia said.
"We have to have some luck with the weather but I think we can be competitive in any (weather) situation.
"Some parts of the track have also been resurfaced, so I think it will be great."
Martin, who won both the sprint and main races in Buriram a fortnight ago, is equally eager to get down to business.
"I was super happy after the (Thai) race, it was my fourth double win of the season," said Martin.
"But I think I had too much time to think about everything (after Thai round), I would have preferred to race straight away because I had the feeling (form).
"Finally, we are here in Malaysia and I am looking forward to the race."
Martin led the race at Sepang last year but crashed, allowing Bagnaia to take the win.
"I think I have a victory missing (from Sepang)," added Martin.
"Hopefully, with the new asphalt here we can improve (times) because the bumps will be less."
Martin had set the current Sepang track lap record (1:57.790s) last year.
