NOV 02, V7N- Francesco Bagnaia clinched pole position for the Malaysian Grand Prix in a thrilling qualifying session, setting a stunning lap time of 1:56.337, breaking the lap record at the Sepang International Circuit four times. With only two races left in the season, the championship battle between Bagnaia and Jorge Martin intensified, as Martin, currently leading the standings with 453 points, set an impressive lap of 1:56.553, only for Bagnaia to go even faster. Bagnaia, second in the standings on 436 points, credited his team for the crucial performance boost, noting the psychological advantage of topping Martin's remarkable pace.

Despite missing out on pole, Martin remained positive, stating, "I thought it (1:56.553) was enough but Bagnaia was incredible today." Martin expects a challenging race on Sunday, acknowledging the similar race pace both riders have demonstrated.

Alex Marquez of Gresini Racing rounded out the front row, while his brother, Marc Marquez, qualified in fifth. Meanwhile, Andrea Iannone, making his return after a four-year doping ban, qualified seventh, stepping in for VR46 Racing Team’s Fabio Di Giannantonio, who is recovering from shoulder surgery.

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