The opening round of the 2021 MotoGP championship series was held earlier today at the Losail Circuit in Qatar. As expected after qualifying, Ducatis dominated most of the race with Yamahas working their way toward the front. The incredible new hole-shot device developed by Ducati saw four of its riders lead into the first turn, including one of its rookies grided several rows back.
The Yamahas piloted by Maverick Viñales and Fabio Quartararo had to work their way up through the Ducati challengers. While Quartararo faded a bit to finish in 5th position, his teammate Viñales took the lead in the race with several laps remaining and built a cushion before taking the win. The Ducatis of Johann Zarco and Francesco Bagnaia finished second and third, respectively.
Defending champ Joan Mir (Suzuki) actually passed Zarco and Bagnaia and led into the final turn of the race. Mir went wide, however, in the final corner and the superior power of the Ducatis meant Zarco and Bagnaia passed him before the checkered flag.
The riders return to Qatar for a second race next weekend. For full results of today’s race, take a look here. You can find additional details on the MotoGP site.
