Jorge Martin Misses Q2 After Front Grip Problems at Brno

Jorge Martin admitted he lacked the confidence needed for a competitive time attack after suffering front-end grip issues that prevented him from securing a direct place in Q2 at the 2026 Czech MotoGP in Brno. The Aprilia rider missed the top ten by just 0.011s during Friday Practice.

The result represents another setback for Martin, who arrived at Brno carrying a double long-lap penalty following his involvement in the first-corner incident at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Missing direct Q2 qualification further complicates his chances of fighting near the front during the Sprint and Sunday’s Grand Prix.

Despite the disappointing result, Martin was encouraged by his physical condition. The Spaniard revealed he felt significantly better than expected and experienced no major limitations while riding, although discomfort remains away from the circuit.

Baca JugaJorge Martin Gagal Q2 di Brno Usai Keluhkan Grip Depan

“I had good fun on the bike. Physically, I feel much better than I expected. I don’t feel any limitation at all while riding, but overall I had a really low feeling with the front throughout the session,” Martin explained.

According to the reigning world champion, the key issue was a lack of front grip that gradually eroded his confidence. Although he improved on every run, he never found the extra feeling required to maximise his performance during the decisive time attack phase.

Martin also revealed that similar front-end problems have affected him in recent rounds, including Mugello and Hungary. The team continues to investigate the root cause as the issue remains unresolved.

“I think I had some issues with the front tyre and then I lost all that confidence. When I went into time attack, I didn’t have that spark to push. We don’t really understand why, so we need to analyse what is going on,” he said.

The situation appeared even more unusual given the strength shown by the other Aprilia riders. Marco Bezzecchi finished second, while Ai Ogura topped the session and Raul Fernandez also secured a place inside the top ten. Their pace convinced Martin that something specific may have affected his own package.

Friday was also used to prepare for the two long-lap penalties he must serve during Sunday’s race. Martin completed several practice runs through the penalty loop to understand the time loss and identify the safest racing line.

The Spaniard revealed he was initially informed that he could use the green-painted runoff area while serving the penalty. However, that guidance was later revised after objections from rival teams.

Although he faces the challenge of progressing through Q1 on Saturday, Martin remains optimistic that Aprilia can identify the source of his front-end problems. If the issue is resolved, he believes he can return to the pace shown by the leading Aprilia riders and rejoin the fight at the front in Brno.