Aprilia MotoGP rider Marco Bezzecchi says he will have to "use Q1 as an advantage" after struggling to 15th in practice on Friday at the Malaysian Grand Prix.
Bezzecchi, MotoGP's in-form rider, was expected to be one of the favorites to fight for victory in the sprint and grand prix. However, he faces an uphill battle to keep his podium run going after failing to achieve a direct Q2 spot.
"It was a tough first day here,"
he said. Bezzecchi will join a volatile Q1 group that includes Pecco Bagnaia, Luca Marini, Fermin Aldeguer, and Raul Fernandez.
Author's summary: Bezzecchi struggles in Malaysia MotoGP Friday practice.
More updates on the Malaysian Grand Prix will follow as the event unfolds.