MotoGP

Vinales wins “sprint thriller” in Portimao

The race was exciting right to the end.(Bild: APA/AFP/PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA)

Maverick Vinales took victory in the second MotoGP sprint race of the season on Saturday. The Spaniard beat Marc Marquez and Jorge Martin in a thrilling race in Portimao. 

Despite suffering from gastrointestinal problems, Maverick Vinales won the MotoGP sprint at the Portuguese Grand Prix on Saturday. The Spanish Aprilia rider distanced himself from the favored Ducatis at the Algarve International Circuit in Portimao and celebrated the first sprint victory of his career. Compatriot Marc Marquez finished second ahead of Jorge Martin and world champion Francesco Bagnaia (all Ducati). The best KTM rider was Jack Miller in fifth place.

Bastianini from pole position
Vinales made the most of his opportunity, which arose after Bagnaia's riding error and the fierce duel between Marquez and Martin. "Honestly, I'm happy to be back at the front. We have to concentrate on tomorrow, but today we are enjoying it. My first win for Aprilia," explained the 29-year-old, who has now achieved success for three different manufacturers (Aprilia, Suzuki and Yamaha) in the premier motorcycle class. KTM's hope for the future Pedro Acosta finished seventh, Brad Binder dropped out.

Italian Enea Bastianini will start Sunday's Grand Prix from pole position, while opening race winner Bagnaia missed out on the front row.