MotoGP world champion Jorge Martin has been forced to withdraw from the remaining pre-season testing in Malaysia following two crashes on the opening day at the Sepang International Circuit. The Spaniard is scheduled to return to Europe for surgery after sustaining injuries in the incidents.
Martin walked away unharmed from his first crash early in the session but suffered a more severe impact during his second incident. He was thrown off his Aprilia machine at turn two, resulting in a right-hand fracture and fractures in his left foot. MotoGP organizers confirmed the injuries in a statement, adding that a CT scan and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed no additional injuries.
“Jorge Martin will remain in the hospital overnight and will fly back to Europe tomorrow to undergo surgery on his right hand and left foot,” the statement read.
The 27-year-old, who joined Aprilia after winning the 2024 championship with Pramac Ducati, had reported pain in his left foot and right hand following the second crash. Martin had completed 13 laps when he lost control of his new bike, causing him to be flung into the air. He landed hard on his left foot before his head hit the asphalt, prompting a red flag to halt the session. He was subsequently transported to a nearby hospital for further evaluation.
Martin is set to begin his title defence at the season-opening Thailand Grand Prix on March 2. However, his participation may now be in doubt as he focuses on recovery.
Jorge Martin Injuries and Testing Highlights
Trackhouse Racing’s Raul Fernandez, also from Spain, was ruled out of the remaining two days of testing after sustaining hand and foot fractures in a separate incident.
On the track, French rider Fabio Quartararo emerged as the fastest on the opening day of testing, clocking an impressive time of 1:57.555. The 25-year-old Yamaha rider expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating, “I was feeling quite good. We were focused on many things to try and achieve a strong lap time, and I think I did a good job.” Quartararo dominated much of Wednesday’s session, securing the fastest time on his 50th lap.
Six-time MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez, now riding for Ducati, finished second with 1:57.606, while his brother Alex Marquez claimed third place with a lap time of 1:57.738.
As the MotoGP season approaches, all eyes will be on Martin’s recovery and his ability to defend his title. Meanwhile, the competition remains fierce, with Quartararo and the Marquez brothers already showcasing their potential during pre-season testing.
Stay tuned for further updates on Jorge Martin’s condition and the latest developments in the MotoGP world.
