The MotoGP paddock is currently buzzing with intense speculation regarding a potential shock return for Martin during the Australian Grand Prix weekend at Phillip Island. The Aprilia rider was initially diagnosed with a fractured radius and a suspected fracture of the ulna at the distal end following a nasty crash at Hayshed.
The dramatic turn of events initially ruled the Spaniard unfit to race on Sunday. This unfortunate incident instantly damaged his championship campaign, turning a crucial two-point advantage in the riders' standings into a 10-point deficit relative to title rival Marc Marquez.
However, the narrative shifted rapidly after an MRI scan in Frankston revealed that the injury might not be as severe as first feared. Former MotoGP rider and Fox Sports commentator Chris Vermeulen shared inside information from the paddock, stating that the team was actively preparing a wet-weather motorcycle just in case.
"It was interesting, because yesterday he was going to Melbourne potentially flying straight back to Spain to get surgery. He got an MRI scan in Frankston and it doesn’t seem as bad," Vermeulen told Fox Sports coverage. He added, "There are fractures there, but he is back on the island and one of my mates in the team said, look, he’s technically not riding, but we are preparing a wet bike. So let’s see how he wakes up."
Severe weather hitting Phillip Island has unexpectedly opened a window of opportunity, as wet track conditions demand significantly less physical exertion on the injured wrist.
"I mean, this is less physical," Vermeulen explained regarding racing in wet conditions. "But in the best-case scenario for him is if they didn’t race, then he doesn’t lose as many points. I think he’s prepared to go out there if he can and try salvage something out of this championship."
Co-commentator Damian Cudlin echoed those sentiments, highlighting the sheer determination of the championship contender. "It is wild, but there’s a world championship on the line. He wants it bad," Cudlin stated. "In the rain, it’s not as physical. You’ve got to be really light on the handlebars, light on controls. It’s important to have feel and feedback from the tyres. It will be a little easier on his wrist, but it won’t be easy at all."
Following the heavy crash on Saturday, Martin was spotted with his arm in a sling before heading off for medical checks. Reflecting on the accident, he stated, "I feel good. For sure, nasty crash. I feel a lot of pain. I will go to Melbourne to do further checks and then we will see how is the injury and how we can approach the next few days." As wild weather continues to threaten the schedule, the Australian Grand Prix remains in a holding pattern.
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