Almansa Takes Record-Breaking Moto3 Pole at Motegi
David Almansa secured Moto3 pole at Mobility Resort Motegi with a lap of 1:54.572, a new all-time record. Brian Uriarte qualified second and Alvaro Carpe third for Red Bull KTM Ajo. Almansa's seventh pole of the season came despite late crashes and drama in the session.
Almansa, riding for Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP on KTM machinery and Pirelli control tires, set a 1:54.572 at Mobility Resort Motegi. That beat the all-time benchmark of 1:54.745 he had established earlier in FP2. It was his seventh pole of the 2026 Moto3 season.
Red Bull KTM Ajo filled the rest of the front row: Brian Uriarte took second at 1:54.617, while Alvaro Carpe was third at 1:54.647. The session featured late falls and gravel excursions, including Uriarte, Carpe, Guido Pini, Adrian Fernandez and Veda Pratama. Championship leader Maximo Quiles qualified fourth.
Almansa’s record pole and the tight title fight could raise interest in Moto3 among motorsport fans, especially in Japan, where the Motegi round may draw more local spectators and media attention. A possible Quiles title clinch could shape season narratives and boost viewership, while young riders may see Almansa’s seventh pole as motivation. For teams, sponsors and the circuit region, the weekend may bring modest economic and promotional benefits, though the broader social impact is likely limited to the racing community.