MotoGP Qatar: Moto3 race preview

A veterans vs rookies clash commences in Qatar as experienced Moto3 runners look to campaign for the crown and an influx of new talent joins the fight.

2021 was a milestone year for Moto3, with a year-long battle ultimately won by a rookie sensation on the way to breaking some incredible records. But that was then and this is now, with said sensation now firmly Moto2’s problem and the throne looking for a new name. The long road to deciding who will reign in 2022 begins now and it begins at Lusail International Circuit.

Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing), the 2021 runner up and rider with the most Moto3 wins to his name – six – will be keen to start off on a high. The Italian was fastest in testing too, and arrives with some serious momentum built in the latter half of last year. Sergio Garcia (Gavita GasGas Aspar Team), who likewise challenged for the crown in 2021, has his eyes on a title campaign too, and he has four Moto3 victories in his pocket. Jaume Masia (Red Bull KTM Ajo), meanwhile, is one of the most seasoned frontrunners and he’ll be looking to hit back after a tougher season in 2021, with the year marred by some injury struggles on top of welcoming the fastest rookie teammate in history.

There are plenty more veterans and podium finishers too. John McPhee heads to Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max Racing and Tatsuki Suzuki saddles up alongside Foggia at Leopard. Both have more than one victory and plenty of experience. Andrea Migno (Rivacold Snipers Team) had a 2021 worthy of a springboard into an even better year, and Izan Guevara (Gavita GasGas Aspar Team) took an impressive rookie year maiden win and, like Migno, remains in the same team. That could be important for continuity, but Xavier Artigas will be looking to