Bastianini storms to first MotoGP win in Qatar, Binder second

 • Gresini Racing's Enea Bastianini took his maiden win at the season opening race in Qatar.  • The rider dedicated his win to the late Fausto Gresini who had founded the team.  • SA's Brad Binder took second place after starting seventh on the grid.

Gresini Racing's Enea Bastianini claimed his maiden MotoGP victory in style at the season-opening Qatar Grand Prix on Sunday as other Ducatis were forced to retire due to technical issues or crashes.

The Italian's victory reduced team owner Nadia Padovani and the Gresini garage to tears as the team, founded by Padovani's late husband Fausto Gresini, won their first race after reverting to being an independent outfit.

Gresini, twice world champion in the 125cc category (now Moto3), died last year at the age of 60 two months after contracting Covid-19.

Just incredible scenes! @FabioDiggia49 celebrates with @Bestia23! ??Both of them given their first chance in Grand Prix by the late Fausto Gresini ??#QatarGP ???? pic.twitter.com/pglv348CX6

"It's difficult for me to speak. I want to dedicate this victory to Fausto because he pushed a lot from the sky," an emotional Bastianini said while pointing to the heavens.

"It's fantastic for the team. I think all the guys are crying."

Bastianini finished ahead of Red Bull KTM's Brad Binder - who made a blistering start from seventh on the grid - and Honda's Pol Espargaro came third, ahead of his elder brother Aleix on the Aprilia.

READ | SA's Brad Binder starts 2022 MotoGP season with a stellar performance, takes 2nd place

That's a podium for @BradBinder_41! ??Congratulated by his brother @DarrynBinder40 on the cool down lap! ??#MotoGP | #QatarGP ???? pic.twitter.com/QZlox2zJ7d

Six-times MotoGP champion Marc Marquez finished fifth while reigning