Championship leader Francesco Bagnaia expects Australian MotoGP star Jack Miller to be “very strong” as the competition heads to Phillip Island on Sunday.
Bagnaia, who has not won in Australia, will be out to extend his 16-point lead over second-placed Jorge Martin in the championship standings.
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AUS GP STORYLINES: Key boost to Miller podium hopes; star’s MotoGP career on the line
But he’ll also have to keep an eye out for Miller on the track as the latter looks to erase his 2022 race at Phillip Island from his memory having been forced to retire after a crash.
“I think he (Jack Miller) will be very strong,” Bagnaia said.
“He loves to race at home, like every rider, and it’s extra motivating for him.
“Last year it was very competitive, but unluckily he crashed.
“But I think this year, KTM will be very strong.”
Despite not having tasted success on Australia soil, Bagnaia is excited to race on a track he believes is one of the fastest in the competition.
“I really like the speed of the layout,” Bagnaia said.
“It’s incredibly fast and in two or three places, it’s very scary.
“But everybody knows how nice it is to ride there.
“I love corner three, it’s one of the best corners in the world.”
Tough Phillip Island conditions expected | 00:45
MORE COVERAGE
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Winners and Losers: Reigning champ cements title twist as Australia looms for next showdown
HOW TO WATCH
Aussie motorsport fans will be able to catch every moment of the Grand Prix of Australia LIVE on Fox Sports Channel 506 and Kayo Sports.
Watch Every Practice, Qualifying & Race of The 2023 MotoGP World Championship Live & Ad-Break Free During Racing on Kayo. Join now and start streaming instantly >
START TIME
The Grand Prix of Australia will begin at 2pm AEDT on Sunday.
SCHEDULE (ALL TIMES AEDT)
Friday October 20
10:45am – 11:30am: Free Practice No. 1
3pm – 4:20pm: Practice
Saturday October 21
10:10am – 10:40am: Free Practice No. 2
10:50am – 11:05am: Qualifying No. 1
11:15am – 11:30am: Qualifying No. 2
3pm – 4:05pm: Sprint race (13 laps)
Sunday October 22
2pm – 2:50pm: Race (27 laps)
CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS
1st: Francesco Bagnaia
2nd: Jorge Martin
3rd: Marco Bezzecchi
4th: Brad Binder
5th: Aleix Espargaro
6th: Maverick Vinales
7th: Johann Zarco
8th: Luca Marini
9th: Jack Miller (AUS)
10th: Fabio Quartararo
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