The Aprilia rider will start on the front row ahead of Spaniard Pedro Acosta of KTM and Frenchman Fabio Quartararo, who qualified third on his Yamaha.

Quartararo had to go through Q1 earlier in the day to participate in Q2 where pole position is decided among the 12 fastest riders.

Former two-time world champion Francesco Bagnaia starts fourth for Ducati for the sprint race at 1400 GMT and for Sunday’s main event.

Spaniard Alex Marquez, who had set the pace in practice, crashed at the very end of qualifying, destroying his chances of securing his second pole position of the season.

Marquez, who is assured of finishing second this season for Ducati-Gresini, qualified fifth ahead of France’s Johann Zarco of Honda-LCR.

In the riders’ championship, only five points separate Bezzecchi, third overall, from his compatriot Bagnaia, in fourth – with as many as 37 points up for grabs on Saturday and Sunday now.

With two rounds remaining this season, Acosta is still in contention for a final podium finish – but he trails by 31 points.

Injured Spaniard Marc Marquez, already assured of the title in the premier category, and his compatriot, 2024 world champion Jorge Martin of Aprilia, did not make the trip to Portugal.