During the German Grand Prix, we were reminded once again of how quickly things can change in the MotoGP.
Jorge Lorenzo once again crashed during the first free practice session and this time there was no jet setting off for a quick surgery to repair his collarbone as he had done a fortnight ago at the Assen TT.
The ‘Man of Steel’ bent some in his shoulder (well titanium actually), coming down hard during the session, which he was leading ahead of Dani Pedrosa.
This was only music to Pedrosa’s ears until he too suffered the same fate, during the second free practice session, being deemed unfit to race after failing the medical due to low blood pressure.
Marc Marquez took full advantage of their misfortunes however, by claiming his third pole position of the season and a second Grand Prix win.
Cal Crutchlow equaled his best result in MotoGP, taking second from Valentino Rossi through the latter part of the race, with Rossi saying he expected a better result.
It now leaves Marc Marquez with a two-point lead in the championship, ahead of Dani Pedrosa and Jorge Lorenzo. This asks the question, can he become the youngest rider ever to win the MotoGP championship?
He will need to look at taking crucial points in Laguna Seca later this week, with Jorge Lorenzo ruling himself out of proceedings and Dani Pedrosa unclear if he will be fit to race.
This however is a track where Marquez has never raced at before as it is reserved only for the MotoGP Championship.
The top five riders now stand as follows: Marquez leads with 138 points, Pedrosa 136 points, Lorenzo 127 points, Crutchlow 107 points and Rossi on 101.
So Roarers, with only 37 points separating the top five, who do you think will take it out?
Chris Dennis
Roar Rookie
Would love to see Rossi take it out but I think he may be a bit far off at the moment, I still think Lorenzo or Pedrosa will do it. Probably Lorenzo if I had to pick
Frankie Hughes
Guest
Rossi's got back to back podiums and the Yamaha is now suited to his riding style. If he wins in Laguna, then Rossi is the favourite.
rolfey
Guest
It's likely to come down to the last one or two races with the spaniards fighting it out. Can't agree with frankie above, Rossi and Cal aren't quite as good as Marquez, Pedeosa and Lorenzo - proven all season. It'd be a battle between Dani and Jorge if injuries didn't prevail so if Jorge is out for two races he's gone. My guess is that Dani will win it....just as the chips will fall his way (as they had been until his injury). Marquez isn't quite there this year but gee I can't wait to see him dominate next season!
Frankie Hughes
Guest
Rossi's looking in the best position if you ask me. 9 races into his Yamaha return, and he's already surpassed his 2 year misery at Ducati.