As MotoGP electrifies Kuala Lumpur for its grand launch, a shadow looms over the event: Fabio Quartararo. The French Yamaha rider, who suffered a spectacular crash during testing in Sepang, was forced to leave the track prematurely. But rest assured, his return is imminent and he will surely light up the Buriram circuit in the coming days!
An unexpected injury
The MotoGP teams gathered this week in Sepang for a decisive test ahead of the season, but not everything went as planned for Fabio Quartararo. After a promising first day, the 2021 world champion suffered a crash that resulted in a fracture to the middle finger of his right hand. An accident that could have spelled the end of his ambitions, but the rider showed remarkable pragmatism.
Returning briefly to the track after his crash, Quartararo ultimately decided to skip the remaining two days. “If it were a race weekend, I could continue, but it doesn’t make sense to do two more days,” he stated, illustrating his wisdom in a delicate situation.
The team’s support and reassuring news
Massimo Meregalli, the team director of Yamaha, spoke to explain the decision made regarding Quartararo. “For us, it was important to avoid any additional risk. Most of the work was already done, and we all agreed that it was better for him to recover and be ready for Buriram,” he affirmed. A cautious approach that underscores the importance of prioritizing the rider’s health above all.
Fortunately, the news is good. Quartararo has returned home to Andorra and underwent medical examinations in Barcelona, which turned out to be reassuring. In a video addressed to his fans, he shared: “I had to go home to see if my finger needed surgery, and everything is fine.” A relief for all those closely following his journey.
Preparations for the Thailand Grand Prix
Quartaro’s presence at the final pre-season test at the Buriram circuit, scheduled for February 21 and 22, is now confirmed. Paolo Pavesio, executive director of Yamaha Motor Racing, wanted to reassure supporters: “Fabio is not here with us because he got injured during the test. But first and foremost, I want to say that he is fine, so he will definitely be on the grid for the test in Thailand and for the first race.”
This test will be crucial for Yamaha, which is working on an entirely new bike after encountering engine issues that halted testing this week. The riders will need to maximize their performance to approach the first race of the championship with confidence.
Aldeguer in uncertainty before the Brazil GP
In Kuala Lumpur, another rider is making headlines: Fermín Aldeguer, who fractured his leg a month ago during training. The team director of Gresini Racing specified that the date of his return will depend on an upcoming medical check. “I think it’s quite certain that he will be in Brazil,” he stated. “On the other hand, he is still working very hard to be in Buriram, but we need to assess the risks and the state of the bone. For now, we are waiting for the doctors’ response.”
The stakes of the upcoming season
With riders like Quartararo and Aldeguer sidelined, the adrenaline is palpable in the paddock. The first Grand Prix of the season in Buriram will be a true test for Yamaha, but also for other teams looking to make their mark in this thrilling championship. Expectations are high, and each rider will need to prove their worth on the track.
In the meantime, fans can take comfort: Quartararo is already ready to get back to work. The Frenchman’s determination is palpable, and there is no doubt that he will do everything in his power to defend his title and shine in Buriram.
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