Alex Marquez has expressed his concern about the safety of young riders in MotoGP, arguing that the latest modifications to the competition format could lead to an increase in injuries. The Gresini rider made these statements during the Australian Grand Prix held this weekend, where six of the 22 full-time riders could not participate due to injuries, four of them serious.
These remarks from Marquez come at a time when MotoGP plans to implement a new sporting format for 2027, which will include two qualifying sessions at each event. Additionally, riders will be required to spend more hours on promotional activities, with threats of fines and sporting penalties for those who do not attend.
Although Marquez has had to miss several races due to injuries to his collarbone and vertebrae, his main concern is long-term. “The demands placed on riders on the track are excessive,” he commented. “We are going faster and the number of laps at the limit is increasing due to modifications intended to make the show. This implies a greater risk.”
The Spanish rider emphasized that the change to the race format with sprints has increased injuries, stating that he, in his experience, could handle it, but is worried about younger riders like Fermin Aldeguer and Pedro Acosta, who are the ones needing greater protection.
Marquez suggested that MotoGP should think about building idols for a long-term future, not just for immediate success. “The number of races and sprints is very complicated for them,” he said. Regarding sprints, he added that reducing their number, bringing it closer to around six races per season, similar to Formula 1, could be a solution.
During the 2026 season, ten riders have suffered serious injuries, including Raúl Fernández and Jorge Martín, who did not participate in the Australian Grand Prix. This has left many in uncertainty about the future of the competition if measures are not taken to reduce the risks associated with the new format.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
