Raul Fernandez admitted that a lingering shoulder injury impacted his ride during the 2026 Thailand MotoGP at Buriram. The shoulder issue, which Fernandez originally suffered last November, continued to give him trouble throughout the weekend, even as he reached the podium.
Fernandez’s injury stems from an incident late in the previous season that has required ongoing management and treatment. Despite this, he showed resilience by delivering a strong performance in Thailand, earning a top‑three finish alongside a field led by Marco Bezzecchi and other frontrunners.
Source: MSports
The Spaniard acknowledged that the discomfort limited his physical capability on race day, particularly in the closing stages where grip and movement are crucial. While he managed to maintain competitive pace, Fernandez conceded that the pain made the weekend more challenging than it might have been otherwise.
His candid admission highlights the toll that long‑standing injuries can have even at the highest level of motorcycle racing. It also underscores the balance riders must find between pushing for results and managing physical strain over a demanding MotoGP schedule. As the championship progresses, how Fernandez’s shoulder holds up will be a key focus for both the rider and his Trackhouse Aprilia team.
Overall, his podium result in Thailand stands as a strong achievement given the circumstances, and it sets an optimistic tone as he and the team look ahead to the next rounds of the 2026 season.
