Jorge Martin will travel to Qatar for the upcoming MotoGP Grand Prix as he attempts another comeback from injury, although the Aprilia rider remains uncertain about his ability to compete.
The 2024 world champion fractured the radius in his right wrist during a high-speed crash in the Australian Grand Prix Sprint two weeks ago while battling Marc Marquez for victory. The injury forced him to miss the main race, which was subsequently cancelled due to rain and fog.
Martin attempted to return at the Malaysian Grand Prix last weekend but was unable to complete the weekend. After struggling during Friday's practice sessions, the Spaniard withdrew before Saturday's qualifying and returned to Spain to continue his recovery.
His main difficulty at Sepang was a lack of strength in his injured wrist, particularly when braking. The same concern will determine whether he can ride safely at Lusail International Circuit.
"It was a shame not to be able to continue the weekend at Sepang, but simply having had the chance to try was an achievement in itself," Martin said.
"I went back to Spain to continue the treatment I need to recover and to arrive in Qatar in the best possible shape. Now we'll see how the body responds, and we'll start working with the team on Thursday and see how far I can go."
Source: Paul Tan.ORG
Martin's participation remains subject to his physical condition and ability to handle the demands of a MotoGP bike. His first assessment with Aprilia on Thursday will provide a clearer indication of whether he can return to the track.
Marquez Could Clinch Championship in Qatar
Martin's potential return comes at a crucial point in the championship, with Marc Marquez approaching his first opportunity to secure the 2026 MotoGP title.
The Ducati rider can mathematically clinch his eighth premier-class world championship in Qatar, depending on his results against Martin and Marco Bezzecchi.
Aprilia's Bezzecchi, meanwhile, will be looking to recover from a disappointing Malaysian Grand Prix. Despite securing a Sprint podium at Sepang, the Italian finished sixth in Sunday's race and hopes to deliver a stronger performance at a circuit he particularly enjoys.
The Qatar Grand Prix will also feature an unusual grid, with Yamaha's riders absent after the manufacturer maintained contractual travel restrictions concerning areas affected by armed conflict.
For Martin, however, the immediate priority remains his recovery. Whether he can compete at Lusail will depend on how his wrist responds once he gets back on the bike.
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