Bezzecchi claims Qatar pole with back-to-back lap record performances

LUSAIL — Marco Bezzecchi delivered a masterclass in qualifying at the Lusail Circuit, propelling his Aprilia to the front of the grid for Sunday's Qatar Grand Prix with a pair of record-breaking laps. The Italian rider's fastest lap proved decisive in denying pole position to Marc Marquez, who leads the MotoGP championship standings aboard his Ducati factory machine. Bezzecchi's double assault on the circuit record underscored Aprilia's competitive form as the premier motorcycle racing championship reaches its business end. The Aprilia rider's performance marks a significant show of strength for the Italian manufacturer in the chase for honours this season. Sunday's race will test whether Bezzecchi can translate his qualifying advantage into a strong finish as Marquez and other championship contenders seek to capitalise on their grid positions.