Augusto Fernandez’s Make-or-Break Moment: “Knew It Was Over” Without Performance
Augusto Fernandez finds himself at a crucial point in his MotoGP career, facing increasing pressure and significant challenges in the 2024 season. His struggles in Qatar were starkly contrasted with the stellar performances of his new teammate, Pedro Acosta, who has been making waves in the MotoGP world.
Acosta, the Moto2 champion, has been compared to a young Marc Márquez due to his impressive debut. He has captivated spectators with his flawless performance in tests at Sepang and Qatar, demonstrating exceptional feedback to his team, committing few mistakes, and achieving competitive lap times. Simon Crafar, a former rider and now commentator, expressed his admiration: “We’re all excited about Pedro. He has just amazed everyone at both tests, in Sepang and here. The lack of mistakes, the brilliant feedback to his team, how he behaves on the bike, the lap times—he is doing everything. Really amazing.”
However, Fernandez has faced a difficult preseason. He had a rough test in Sepang and bad luck in Qatar, where technical issues hampered his progress. The engine failure on the first day left him with only one bike, which he later crashed, depriving him of crucial time attacks. Despite his efforts and determination, the results have yet to materialise.
“The contrast? Augusto is a good rider. He showed that he deserves to keep the job,” said Crafar. “He started the year on the back foot, with a really rough test in Sepang. Then, in Qatar, he had bad luck. His engine went, so he spent the second half of the first day with one bike. Then he wrote off that bike before the time attacked, so we don’t know what he could have done. Then his mechanics had a busy night. He was the first to get on the track to check his bike, which had been repaired. It still hasn’t come together for him. So, I hope that it doesn’t continue like this and that he doesn’t have a really tough year. He’s a great rider, a great kid, and he’s hungry. He deserves better than he’s getting at the moment.”
Acosta’s entry into MotoGP prompted KTM to secure a place for him, but they also extended Fernandez’s contract, showing faith in his abilities. Fernandez finished his rookie year in 17th place, with the best result of P4 at Le Mans. However, with Acosta now as his teammate, Fernandez faces strong competition and the need to prove himself.
As the season progresses, Fernandez must seize his opportunities and demonstrate his potential. His performance in the upcoming races will be crucial in determining his future in MotoGP. The pressure is high, but with determination and resilience, Fernandez has the chance to turn his season around and secure his place among the elite riders of the premier class.
