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Podcast: Was MotoGP right to restart the Catalunya race after two huge crashes?
The 2026 MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix was marred by two major incidents, leading to questions about the decision to restart the race by some riders. The first incident involved Pedro Acosta and Alex Marquez, leading to a race halt on lap 12 after Acosta’s KTM lost power. Marquez sustained fractures but underwent successful surgery and is set to return home. The race was initially restarted for 13 laps, but was red-flagged after Johann Zarco collided with Pecco Bagnaia and Luca Marini. Despite minor injuries, Zarco is now back home in France. The race eventually saw Fabio Di Giannantonio as the winner, with some riders questioning the need for a second restart after the crashes. These events have reignited debates on MotoGP’s approach to safety and the absence of a riders’ union, sparking discussions on necessary safety changes.
