LISBON, March 23 — Enea Bastianini took his first pole position for Ducati with a blistering display at the Portuguese Grand Prix on Saturday, while team mate Francesco Bagnaia failed to secure a spot in the front row.

The pole was Bastianini’s first since the Austrian Grand Prix in July 2022, with the Italian having struggled last season after joining Ducati in 2023.

“After a long time without the pole position, it’s special today. It’s the first one with Ducati. I’m happy because we improved since yesterday. It’s only the first step, but we’re happy,” Bastianini said.