Bagnaia clinches nail biter to set up showdown with Jorge in last round

En route to victory: Francesco Bagnaia (front) leading the race at Sepang. Below: The Italian receiving the trophy from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star

PETALING JAYA: A nail-biting race at the Sepang International Circuit saw Italy’s Francesco Bagnaia keep his title hopes alive after going wheel-to-wheel with contender Jorge Martin during the Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix yesterday.

Defending champion Bagnaia rode his Ducati Lenovo Team bike to victory after crossing the finish line in 38:04.563s, with current championship leader Martin of Spain finishing 3.141s behind.