Jorge Martin has been dealt a setback ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, after MotoGP Stewards issued a three-place grid penalty following a controversial incident during Friday’s practice at Circuito de Jerez.
The sanction comes after the Aprilia Racing rider was found guilty of “riding slow on the racing line,” which interfered with Alex Marquez of Gresini Racing MotoGP at Turns 3 and 4 during the closing stages of the session.
Importantly, the penalty will only affect Sunday’s Grand Prix grid, meaning Martin will start the Tissot Sprint race based on his qualifying position.
After finishing ninth in Friday’s practice, Martin has secured a spot in Q2, where the fight for pole position will unfold.
However, due to the penalty, the Spaniard’s best possible starting position for Sunday’s race will be fourth—even if he clocks the fastest lap in qualifying.
All eyes now turn to Saturday’s qualifying session, where Martin will aim to maximize his grid slot for both the Sprint and the Grand Prix.
With momentum playing a key role at Jerez, any grid drop could prove decisive in a tightly contested race weekend.
The penalty adds another layer of pressure on Martin, who has been in strong form this season and remains a key contender in the MotoGP title fight.
Credit Photo : BRIC
