Jorge Martin Hopes for a Comeback in Qatar as Injuries Heal

Defending MotoGP champion Jorge Martin expresses hope to return for the Qatar race on April 12 and 13 after recovering from injuries sustained in pre-season crashes. He emphasizes the importance of not rushing recovery timelines. In related news, Miguel Oliveira will miss the Austin race due to injury, with Augusto Fernandez stepping in as his replacement.

Jorge Martin, the defending MotoGP world champion, is optimistic about his return following two pre-season crashes. Although he has missed the first two rounds and will not participate in the Austin race on March 29 and 30, he hopes to compete in the fourth round in Lusail, Qatar, on April 12 and 13. Martin noted, “I expect to be in Qatar, but only if it doesn’t pose any risks.”

He emphasized the importance of proper timelines for his recovery, stating, “these are the timelines, and it would be a mistake to rush them,” as rushing could prolong his recovery. Martin sustained significant injuries, including a broken right hand and foot during a crash in Malaysia. He later experienced another serious crash while training, which led to further injuries.

He reported broken bones in his left wrist and foot, along with muscular injuries in his right ribs, which have hindered his progress. Currently, he trails six-time world champion Marc Marquez by 74 points, who has dominated the early races. Martin remarked, “Marc winning is not something anyone could not have expected,” while expressing optimism about his recovery.

In a related update, Miguel Oliveira of the Yamaha-Pramac team will miss the Austin race due to injuries sustained in a crash during the Sprint Race in Argentina. He has been replaced by Augusto Fernandez, the 2022 Moto2 World Champion. Oliveira’s injuries included a sternoclavicular dislocation with ligament damage, necessitating further evaluation in Portugal.

Jorge Martin’s potential return to the MotoGP circuit following significant injuries is contingent upon safe recovery timelines. While he has missed the initial races, he maintains hope for the Qatar round if his health permits. Additionally, Miguel Oliveira’s replacement by Augusto Fernandez highlights ongoing changes within the teams as they navigate injuries this season. Both cases illustrate the challenges faced by riders and their teams in the demanding MotoGP environment.

Original Source: www.sanfordherald.com