MotoGP News: Augusto Fernandez Hits Rock Bottom - 'I'm in the Worst Situation'

MotoGP rider Augusto Fernandez expresses concern about his future in the sport after being left out of KTM's 2025 lineup, citing his struggle to adapt to MotoGP and considering potential career moves to teams like Gresini or Trackhouse.

Apr 14, 2024; Austin, TX, USA; Augusto Fernandez (37) of Spain and Red Bull Tech3 GASGAS rides during the MotoGP Grand Prix of The Americas at Circuit of The Americas. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Motorcycle racing is a world where fortunes can turn as quickly as the bikes themselves, and no one is feeling that more acutely right now than MotoGP rider Augusturge Fernandez. Recently, Fernandez voiced his concerns about an increasingly precarious future in the sport, particularly after his team, KTM, announced a reshuffled line-up that did not include him for the 2025 season. The new lineup will feature Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta, effectively sidelining Fernandez and his teammate Jack Miller.

In an earnest interview with Relevo, Fernandez did not mince words about his current precarious position.

"Right now I'm in the worst situation," he admitted, reflecting on his recent performances and his uncertain future. Despite the stark outlook, he remains hopeful, noting that over half the season remains. "I know I have a lot more. There's more than half a year left," Fernandez remarked, signaling his intention to capitalize on the remaining races.

The decision by KTM last year to keep Fernandez over demoting Pol Espargaro was a critical moment. However, the impressive emergence of Pedro Acosta as a rookie for Tech3 has added complexity to Fernandez's situation within KTM and possibly influenced the decision against extending his tenure.

Performance-wise, Fernandez, the 2022 Moto2 champion, has found the transition to MotoGP's premier class challenging. This struggle has significantly impacted his prospects within a grid that has scant openings for next season. Potential career moves could see Fernandez considering teams like Gresini, needing a replacement for Marc Marquez, or even Trackhouse, which might be contemplating a change in their lineup. Alternatively, a shift to World Superbikes could be on the cards if his performance in the current year doesn't see a dramatic improvement.

Reflecting on his situation, Fernandez shared a feeling of frustration:

"It can be torture... I don't know what's going to happen next year, but we have half a year left. I don't see myself having such a bad time all that time." He further emphasized the importance of leveraging what can be learned from peers: "So we have to try to draw strength and turn the situation around, because there is a lot of good information from the other riders that we can copy."

This approach echoes the story of Fabio di Giannantonio, who, against expectations, significantly improved his performance and secured his spot in MotoGP. For Fernandez, this precedent is a beacon of hope as he aims to transform his current predicament into a platform for resurgence. "We have to try to have a good time in the remainder of the season and next year we'll see where we'll be. But at least turn this around," he stated with resolution.

As the season progresses, Augusto Fernandez's efforts to rebound from his lowest point will be closely watched. What unfolds will undoubtedly have significant implications not just for his career, but potentially for the landscape of MotoGP itself.