Martín’s MotoGP Return Ends in Agony with Severe Chest Injuries at Qatar GP
Jorge Martín’s highly anticipated return to MotoGP, riding for Aprilia after missing the season’s first three rounds, came to an abrupt and dramatic halt at the Qatar Grand Prix when a crash inflicted grave injuries. The reigning world champion lost control of his Aprilia in a high-speed right-hander on lap 10, suffering a violent impact that left him in visible distress trackside.
Credit: TheRace.com
Initial assessments revealed Martín had sustained chest trauma and a pneumothorax, prompting emergency transport to Hamad General Hospital for a CT scan and observation. MotoGP’s medical director, Ángel Charte, described the crash as “high energy”; despite being conscious and oriented, Martín’s condition required immediate stabilization and diagnostic imaging.
Subsequent hospital updates from Aprilia confirmed the severity of Martín’s injuries: 11 fractured ribs—eight on the posterior costal arches (ribs 1 through 8) and three additional fractures on the lateral arches (ribs 7 through 9). Fortunately, scans showed no damage to his brain, spine, or abdominal organs, offering a small comfort amid the serious thoracic trauma. Pleural swelling was also noted, likely related to the pneumothorax.
The crash cut short a promising weekend. Martín had shown encouraging speed given his limited preparation, qualifying 14th—just behind teammate Marco Bezzecchi—and completing the sprint race Saturday, despite ongoing challenges with his left hand. That performance had seemed like a stepping stone toward regaining race rhythm.
Aprilia confirmed Martín would remain hospitalized in Doha for several days under observation, until the pneumothorax resolves. A cautious and medically supervised return home—and eventually to active duty—will follow once stable.
For Martín, who has already endured multiple pre-season surgeries for foot and hand injuries, this represents another cruel twist in an already challenging 2025. What was intended to be a triumphant return now shifts into recovery—and patient rehabilitation.