P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Martin ‘wouldn’t be here’ if COTA MotoGP qualifying crash was a highside
Having smashed the lap record in Friday practice, Pramac’s Martin was expected to challenge for pole at the Circuit of the Americas on Saturday. However, two crashes left him sixth on the grid, with the latter being a fast rear-end off going through Turn 18 on his second flying lap after his first fall. Explaining his qualifying crashes after the sprint, Martin admitted he was “lucky” to walk away from his Turn 18 spill. Martin reflected on his aggressive turn approach, where he nearly high-sided, acknowledging his fortunate outcome. Despite starting poorly in the 10-lap sprint, Martin battled back to finish third, extending his championship lead by 24 points. While struggling with rear grip, Martin highlighted rear vibration issues as his main hurdle throughout the race weekend.
