Franco Morbidelli followed his “amazing” debut VR46 MotoGP Podium in Argentina on a “beautiful” visit to the Ayrton Senna International Circuit in Goaiania, Brazil.
Morbidelli struggled early in the weekend, but he believed his team had turned things around.
In the sprint race, which came in eighth place in the qualifying round, the Italians finished seventh before shaking at the Grand Prix on Sunday.
Morbidelli made rapid progress and early progress, surpassing Ducati’s double world champion Francesco Bagnaia to third place.
The former title runner-up kept Bagnaia at bay for the rest of the race alongside Yamaha on his first podium since 2021.
“That’s amazing. In Argentina, the team did an amazing job. We improved our bikes all weekend together, because on Friday I was a step behind,” he said.
“But we were able to catch up with the guys at the top in the best possible way and raced great. Especially at first, I was able to be aggressive and I was very confident.”
Franco Morbidelli shines in Kota
Will Morbidelli continue to gain momentum with COTA this weekend?
“That’s great. It’s especially challenging and difficult to catch up with them, especially since not only is Mark (Marquez), but Alex is in the best form too. But let’s take a look.”
After the impressive Argentine Grand Prix, Morbidelli moved straight to Brazil. Brazil is a country close to his heart through the mother side of the family and the planned MotoGP venue for 2026.
“It was beautiful to go to Brazil and catch up with Brazilian fans and Brazilian people right after a great weekend,” Morbidelli said.
“It was beautiful to go to this new circuit, it looks better, and it has great potential, so I’m really looking forward to going there (it’s all over).
“There’s a huge passion for sports,” added Morbidelli. “Brazilians are generally really passionate people, but I think they have this great connection for motorsports.
“Because I love their style, because that’s how I do it. I love them and look forward to doing a good show for them in Goania next year.”
Morbidelli and teammate Fabio Di Giannantonio will race in a special colouring at Cota on Sunday.