Alonso Dominates Moto2 Practice at COTA, Championship Leader Faces Qualifying Challenge
David Alonso of the CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team set a blistering pace during Friday’s practice session at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the United States, clocking a 2:05.847 and leaving the competition trailing. The Colombian rider finished nearly half a second ahead of his nearest rival, Manuel Gonzalez, signaling a strong start to the weekend at the Circuit of the Americas.
Alonso’s Record-Breaking Performance
Alonso’s lap time not only topped the charts but also broke Manuel Gonzalez’s All-Time Lap Record of 2:07.355 from 2025. Gonzalez, despite a late-session crash at Turn 1, managed a 2:06.341, securing second place. Barry Baltus of REDS Fantic Racing rounded out the top three with a time of 2:06.453.
Key Contenders Emerge
Filip Salac (OnlyFans American Racing Team) and Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) secured fourth and fifth positions respectively. Tony Arbolino (REDS Fantic Racing) also demonstrated strong performance, finishing sixth. The top ten was completed by Ivan Ortola, Celestino Vietti, Izan Guevara, and a promising performance from American rider Joe Roberts.
Roberts Gains Automatic Q2 Entry
Joe Roberts’ tenth-place finish marks a significant improvement for the American rider, granting him automatic entry into Q2 for the first time this season. This provides a boost for the local fans and adds an exciting dynamic to the qualifying session.
Championship Leader Faces Uphill Battle
World Championship leader Daniel Holgado faces a more challenging path to the grid, finding himself in Q1 for the second consecutive weekend. He will need a strong performance in the first qualifying session to advance to Q2 and fight for a favorable starting position.
Moto2 Practice Results – Top 10
- 1. David Alonso (CFMoto Inde Aspar Team) – 2:05.847
- 2. Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) – 2:06.341
- 3. Barry Baltus (REDS Fantic Racing) – 2:06.453
- 4. Filip Salac (OnlyFans American Racing Team) – 2:06.504
- 5. Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) – 2:06.633
- 6. Tony Arbolino (REDS Fantic Racing) – 2:06.651
- 7. Ivan Ortola (QJMotor – Pons Grup – MSi) – 2:06.736
- 8. Celestino Vietti (SpeedRS Team) – 2:06.763
- 9. Izan Guevara (Blu Cru Pramac Yamaha) – 2:06.815
- 10. Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing Team) – 2:06.853
FAQ
Q: Who topped the Moto2 practice session at COTA?
A: David Alonso topped the session with a time of 2:05.847.
Q: What is the significance of Alonso’s lap time?
A: Alonso’s lap time broke the All-Time Lap Record at COTA, previously held by Manuel Gonzalez.
Q: Will Daniel Holgado automatically advance to Q2?
A: No, Holgado will have to compete in Q1.
Q: Where can I uncover the full practice results?
A: Full Moto2 Practice results are available on the MotoGP website.
Did you know? David Alonso, representing Colombia, also holds Spanish citizenship.
Stay tuned for qualifying on Saturday to see who will secure the best starting positions for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the United States!
