MotoGP News: Jorge Martin Crash Ends His Race - 'Didn't Expect It'

Alex Harrington | Jul 7, 2024

Apr 14, 2024; Austin, TX, USA; Jorge Martin (89) of Spain and Prima Pramac Racing and Enea Bastianini (23) of Italy and Ducati Lenovo Team 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

Pramac Ducati's Jorge Martin experienced a race-ending crash just two laps before the finish of the MotoGP World Championship race in Germany. The incident, which occurred at Turn 1 during the penultimate lap, saw Martin lose control and slide off the track, abruptly halting what had been a strong performance.

Martin, who had been a strong contender to extend his lead in the championship, expressed his difficulty in immediately analyzing the crash.

"I cannot explain a lot. It's difficult to analyze at the moment," he remarked post-race, clearly shaken by the unexpected turn of events. Adding to his frustrations, Martin noted:

"I think we did an amazing job today until the crash. It’s frustrating for sure. It's a pity after doing such an amazing race, but we have to move forward. We have to get back up. And I think today is a really important day for my career. I will learn from this. I will get back to winning and that's it.”

The crash not only derailed Martin's race but also significantly impacted the championship standings. Francesco Bagnaia, seizing the opportunity created by Martin's misfortune, clinched victory in the race and subsequently overtook Martin in the title lead.

Throughout the race weekend, Martin had faced persistent issues with the bike's front end, particularly at Turn 1—the very location of his crash.

"We've been struggling a lot with the front all weekend," he explained. Despite feeling some instability in that area, the crash was unforeseen. "Corner 1 was one of those places, but I didn't expect to crash. For sure I felt some movements over there but nothing special. So now we just need to move forward and for sure we need to accept this," Martin elaborated.

Looking ahead, Martin is focused on recovery and reflection. The summer break presents an opportunity for him to analyze and move past the mistake before returning to the track at Silverstone. With a 10-point deficit now separating him from the new leader Bagnaia, the upcoming races are critical for Martin’s championship aspirations.