29 Jun 2026

Jorge Martin saved by Assen run‑off after high‑speed crash

Jorge Martin believes a specific safety feature at Assen spared him from a far more dangerous crash during MotoGP Practice. The Spaniard fell at the ultra‑fast right‑hander of Turn 12 after clipping the inside kerb and losing the front, sliding across the asphalt run‑off before skimming onto the grass. Martin said he was relieved the area was not filled with gravel, insisting he might have “started making some backflips” had the surface been different.

Despite the fall, Martin felt encouraged by his pace, noting improvements in braking compared to Brno after adding more weight to the front of his Aprilia. He admitted stability remained his main issue heading into Saturday.

Martin also acknowledged team‑mate Marco Bezzecchi’s strong form, saying the Italian currently has “two or three tenths” over the field in time‑attack mode. Still, he remains confident that Aprilia’s overall speed will allow him to close the gap before the race.