Martin overcomes Qatar corner fear despite wrist injury

Jorge Martin says his injury-limited ride at the Qatar Grand Prix helped him overcome a specific fear at the circuit, although it did little for his MotoGP title hopes in 2026. Martin had pulled out of the Malaysian Grand Prix after breaking his wrist at Phillip Island, but rode through the full Qatar weekend two weeks after the fracture. He qualified poorly, took third in the sprint and finished seventh in the main race, leaving him 60 points behind Marc Marquez with 74 still available.

Martin said he was particularly pleased to complete the weekend without incident. He described feeling uneasy in corner 12 with Fabio Di Giannantonio behind him, recalling an earlier crash in which he was struck by the Ducati. He said he was able to take the corner well this time, with greater control and understanding of his bike.

Martin said he was very tired and in pain but considered the effort worthwhile. He added that his wrist is healing quickly and that he hopes to be close to full fitness for Portimao, where Marquez could clinch the title with a sprint win.