The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix on Sunday has set the stage for major shifts in the 2024 MotoGP title battle. Francesco Bagnaia's crash cost him a podium finish and handed Jorge Martin a 24-point lead in the championship standings. However, the bigger story lies in the final-lap incident between Martin and Enea Bastianini, which could have long-term consequences.

The questionable pass Bastianini made on Martin for the race win sparked controversy among fans. Regardless of which rider fans are rooting for, the incident sends a clear message to Martin that it’s time to fight back harder if he wants to stay on top in the championship.

Bastianini's pass on Martin involved a risky dive into the corner with little room, a move often seen in MotoGP. While it may seem aggressive, such maneuvers have been part of racing for years, and Bastianini, racing in front of his home crowd, cannot be faulted for trying. The controversy arose from the slight contact at the apex of the turn, which forced Martin off-track and cost him the victory. Though Martin showed his frustration, raising his hand in protest, the race stewards did not penalize Bastianini.

Bastianini also broke track limits after the move, a point where many critics, including rider Marc Marquez, believe action should have been taken. The rules around overtakes and track limits are a gray area in MotoGP. It is often hard for stewards to determine what is acceptable, but when a rider gains or maintains an advantage by leaving the track, the decision should be clear. The inconsistency in enforcement has left room for interpretation, frustrating both riders and fans.

Simon Crafar, a respected figure in the MotoGP paddock, argued that riders should be allowed more freedom on the final lap. However, this idea clashes with MotoGP's strict track limits rule, which punishes riders for exceeding them, especially in the race's closing moments. Crafar's perspective has merit, but it complicates the enforcement of rules meant to ensure fairness.

For Martin, the Misano incident is a reminder that he cannot afford to hold back as the season enters its critical final stages. With six races remaining and Bagnaia still a threat, every single point counts. As both riders prepare for the Asia-Pacific leg, their rivalry is intensifying, making a thrilling finale in Valencia all the more likely.