Jorge Martin crashes out at COTA following gearbox issues

The Grand Prix of the Americas got underway with an unusual Moto3 race, which was delayed by fifteen minutes due to an oil spillage on track. The customary freight train at the front of the pack was split by Romano Fenati and Jorge Navarro, the Spaniard making the initial escape before a couple of mistakes allowed the Italian to capitalise.

Once he took the lead Fenati did not look back until the chequered flag, with Navarro taking second and Brad Binder consolidating his championship lead with the final podium position ahead of German youngster Philipp Oettl, who had yesterday taken his first pole.

Jorge Martín had gearbox problems, which caused him to firstly lose vital seconds in the race before later running wide and crashing. With a bent handlebar Martín was unable to complete the race, having looked capable of a points-scoring finish.

Jorge Martín (DNF):
“I started from twentieth position, which is a long way back, so I knew I had to make the most of the first few laps. I went for the outside into turn one and managed to make up a few positions. I felt comfortable and strong and felt like I could get away from the guys behind me but once again I had a gearbox problem and lost two or three seconds. Then when I tried to brake late into turn one I ran into the gravel and crashed. I came back onto the track but the handlebar was bent and I couldn’t continue. Even so I am happy with the work we have done, I am just sorry for the team but I am sure we will be stronger in Europe.”

Source: Aspar