2016 Qatar MotoGP Race Results: Effortless Win For Lorenzo

The season opener for 2016 MotoGP Championship was held at Losail International Circuit in Qatar. Several changes have finally brought all manufacturers and teams to a level playing field. Major change is the new and sole tyre provider Michelin and an unified electronics package.

Round one saw Jorge Lorenzo set a blistering pace for pole position. The reigning MotoGP Champion was closely followed by Marc Marquez and Maverick Vinales. The second row was an all-Italian lockout with Iannone, Rossi, and Dovizioso securing fourth, fifth, and sixth places respectively.

All riders got a clean start and none of them collided at the first corner, which is always a good sign. For the very first time, the battle for victory was between five riders who were setting consistent and near identical lap times.

Ducati Factory riders Andrea Iannone and Andrea Dovizioso kept trading places up front for the lead. At this moment, Lorenzo sat behind them comfortably waiting for a mistake. Iannone was the first to flinch as his zealous nature took over and as he pushed harder his front wheel gave way sending him into the gravel trap.

The remainder of Qatar GP witnessed a subdued climate as all riders rode cautiously. None of them pushed each other for the lead. Chequered flag came out with Lorenzo crossing it a few seconds ahead of Dovizioso. The duo was followed by Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi.