Raul Fernandez Blames Jorge Martin for Costly Catalunya MotoGP Collision
Trackhouse Aprilia rider Raul Fernandez has pointed the finger at Jorge Martin following their controversial collision during the chaotic 2026 Catalan Grand Prix in Barcelona.
The dramatic incident occurred during the final race restart after two separate red-flag stoppages had already disrupted the MotoGP event. Jorge Martin was running near the front of the field and chasing valuable championship points when Fernandez attempted an aggressive move on the inside at Turn 5. The two Aprilia riders made contact mid-corner, sending Martin into the gravel and destroying his hopes of a strong finish.
Speaking after the race, Fernandez insisted that telemetry data proved he was not responsible for the crash. According to the Spanish rider, Martin changed his racing line while the overtake was already in progress, leaving no room to avoid contact. Fernandez argued that he had sufficient speed and positioning to complete the maneuver legally before the collision happened.
Fernandez also explained that he never entered the corner at excessive speed and believed his move was fully under control. He claimed onboard footage and technical data clearly showed Martin tightening the corner entry while Fernandez was already alongside him.
Despite defending his actions, Fernandez admitted frustration over the consequences for Aprilia. The incident cost both riders valuable points during a crucial stage of the MotoGP title battle and created visible tension inside the Aprilia camp.
MotoGP stewards reviewed the clash shortly after the race but decided not to penalize either rider. The decision sparked debate among fans and analysts, with many split over who carried the greater responsibility for the collision. Social media discussions and onboard replays quickly fueled controversy throughout the MotoGP community.
Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola was later seen in intense discussions with Trackhouse team boss Davide Brivio following the incident. Reports from the paddock suggested the manufacturer was disappointed to see two Aprilia riders eliminate each other during such an important race weekend.
The Catalunya Grand Prix became one of the most chaotic races of the 2026 MotoGP season. Earlier in the event, Alex Marquez suffered serious injuries after colliding with Pedro Acosta’s slowing KTM, while Johann Zarco was also hospitalized following another major crash that triggered a second red flag.
Although Fernandez remained convinced that he did nothing wrong, the clash with Martin highlighted growing tensions inside Aprilia as the championship battle intensifies heading toward the middle phase of the 2026 MotoGP campaign.
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