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Two-time MotoGP world champion Casey Stoner has expressed significant disapproval regarding the introduction of a new anti-highside assistance system in the sport. His strong remarks suggest that MotoGP is mirroring past missteps observed in Formula 1, diminishing the emphasis on rider skill and potentially altering the nature of racing hazards.

Stoner's critique came after the initial free practice session at the Red Bull Ring on Friday, echoing similar concerns raised by prominent riders such as Marc Marquez and Pedro Acosta earlier. The Australian champion views the stability control system as a worrying sign of a broader trend that prioritizes engineering over the innate talent of the riders. He asserted that the current direction is transforming the sport into one where engineers, rather than competitors, are the true champions.

The racing icon elaborated on his apprehension, stating that these advanced electronic aids fundamentally alter the dynamics of riding. He highlighted that with nearly 300 horsepower at their disposal, riders can now simply twist the throttle without the immediate consequences that once demanded exceptional control. This, he contends, makes the bikes too easy to handle, even for the world's elite riders, and consequently detracts from the spectacle and the essence of the sport he once dominated. Stoner recounted personal experiences during testing where electronic systems negated the need for intricate clutch work, further illustrating his point about the erosion of rider input.

Furthermore, Stoner refuted the official justification that the stability control system enhances safety. He argued that by mitigating risks at the rear of the motorcycle, the system inadvertently encourages riders to push harder on the front end. This shift, he warned, could lead to more severe front-end crashes, which often result in catastrophic incidents on the track. He emphasized that making one aspect of the bike 'safer' can simply transfer the danger to another, potentially less manageable, area.

Stoner also cast a critical eye on the proposed regulatory changes for MotoGP in 2027, which include reductions in aerodynamics and engine capacity, alongside a ban on ride-height devices. He believes these measures do not go far enough to address the core issues. He predicts that lighter bikes with less top speed will lead to shorter braking zones, reducing overtaking opportunities. Additionally, he pointed out that the continued presence of winglets on lighter bikes could exacerbate issues like turbulent air and tire temperature problems, indicating that the sport is moving in a direction fraught with complications rather than solutions, while also raising concerns about the mounting costs associated with aerodynamic development.

The implications of Stoner's concerns were seemingly observed in the subsequent practice session, where despite the absence of high-side crashes, several riders, including Enea Bastianini, experienced multiple run-offs due to aggressive braking. While Spielberg is notoriously challenging for braking, the session appeared to underscore Stoner's assertion that excessive reliance on electronics could indeed shift the performance burden and associated risks to other areas of rider control.

The fundamental shift towards increased electronic intervention, as voiced by Stoner and other riders, suggests a growing disconnect between the traditional demands of motorcycle racing, which celebrated raw talent and instinct, and the modern push for technological assistance. This evolving landscape raises questions about the future identity of MotoGP and its ability to maintain the thrilling, rider-centric essence that has historically defined it.

In a thrilling qualifying session at Richmond Raceway, Ryan Preece delivered an exceptional performance, clinching pole position for the upcoming Cup Series race. This unexpected triumph provides a crucial boost for Preece, who is currently navigating a tight playoff battle, sitting 34 points shy of the cutoff. The strategic advantage of starting from the front row offers a prime opportunity to accumulate significant stage points, which could prove decisive in his quest for a playoff berth.

Preece's remarkable lap time of 22.244 seconds on the Virginia short track was just fast enough to edge out Tyler Reddick, who will start second in his No. 45 23XI Racing Toyota. This pole position marks only the second of Preece's Cup Series career, highlighting the precision and effort from his RFK Racing team. The team's collective efforts were lauded by Preece, who expressed gratitude for the car's strong performance, noting its transformation from practice to qualifying.

The qualifying session was not without its share of drama and challenges for other competitors. A.J. Allmendinger showcased a commendable recovery, securing third place despite facing pre-qualifying inspection issues. Veteran drivers Denny Hamlin and Chase Elliott also demonstrated their prowess, rounding out the top five. Other notable names in the top ten included Brad Keselowski, Bubba Wallace, Christopher Bell, Alex Bowman, and Michael McDowell, all vying for favorable starting positions in the competitive field.

While Preece celebrated his pole, several drivers encountered difficulties. Joey Logano, who had previously faced a tire-related incident during practice, continued to struggle, being forced to abandon his qualifying lap due to a severe tire rub. Additionally, drivers such as Justin Haley, Erik Jones, and Shane van Gisbergen experienced close calls, lightly grazing the wall at Turn 4 as they pushed their vehicles to their limits in pursuit of speed. Even a past Richmond winner, Austin Dillon, and the practice leader Kyle Busch found themselves further down the grid, underscoring the unpredictable nature of qualifying sessions at this track.

This impressive pole from Preece adds an exciting layer to the upcoming race, as drivers contend not only for victory but also for crucial points in the final stages of the regular season. The diverse range of performances across the field sets the stage for what promises to be an engaging and hard-fought competition, with every position on the track potentially impacting playoff hopes.