There was a dark grey cloud over the Catalan GP after tragedy struck on the Friday and the paddock mourned the loss of Moto2™ rider Luis Salom. Racing on at the express wish of the Mallorcan’s family, the weekend was pivotal because of the tragedy – and because of the events in parc ferme following the race. With an adjusted layout after track safety was discussed following Friday’s events, it was – surprisingly to some – the Hondas who gained the most from the change. In the race however, it was Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) who struck back once the light went out, finally winning a duel with Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) on the penultimate lap – for his second win of the year in enemy territory. Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda Team) completed the podium in a much-improved race after a difficult run.