Raul Fernandez Boosts MotoGP Future After Assen 2026 Breakthrough

Raul Fernandez believes his MotoGP future is now in a much stronger position after producing his breakthrough weekend at the 2026 Assen MotoGP.

The Trackhouse Racing rider came close to delivering a perfect weekend. After losing a maiden pole position because of a track limits violation in qualifying, Fernandez responded by winning the Sprint before finishing second in Sunday's Grand Prix behind teammate Ai Ogura.

"It was almost the perfect weekend. Yesterday we fought for pole until the end and won the Sprint. Today we fought for victory until the last five or six laps, so I'm very happy," Fernandez said.

Read AlsoJorge Martin Leads 2026 MotoGP Standings After Assen

Fernandez explained that his main objective before the race was simply to fight for a podium. He admitted he was not fully convinced by the medium rear tyre because he felt the bike was not completely prepared for that compound, but remained pleased with the overall work completed throughout the weekend.

"We will analyse how Ai managed the final part of the race. What I can say is that today's target was to fight for the podium. I wasn't really convinced about the medium rear tyre and, until the final moments on the grid, I was watching what the others would choose. I don't think our bike was 100 percent ready for that tyre, but the work we did throughout the weekend was extremely positive," he explained.

The Assen result was even more significant because only a week earlier Fernandez had been unsure whether he would even be able to race at Brno after recovering from appendicitis. He believes the points collected over the last two rounds have been valuable both for his championship campaign and his contract situation.

"One week ago I was thinking I wouldn't even be able to ride at Brno because of appendicitis. In these last two races we've scored a lot of points," he added.

Regarding his future, Fernandez said his position is now considerably stronger and hopes an announcement will be made soon. His manager, Paco Sanchez, also confirmed that they have received an initial contract offer from Trackhouse Racing and are currently discussing it with the team.

Fernandez leaves Assen sixth in the 2026 MotoGP standings. His Sprint victory and Grand Prix podium have not only strengthened his momentum on track but also improved his position ahead of negotiations for next season.