P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Aleix Espargaro has been penalised for his Qatar Grand Prix practice altercation with MotoGP rival Franco Morbidelli.
Aprilia rider Aleix Espargaro has been penalised for physically striking rival Franco Morbidelli during MotoGP practice in Qatar. The incident occurred when Espargaro lunged down the inside of Morbidelli, causing contact and both riders to run wide. Espargaro’s frustration escalated, and he struck Morbidelli’s helmet before riding away. Yamaha team manager Maio Meregalli stated that Yamaha anticipated a penalty for Espargaro’s actions. The stewards imposed a six-place grid penalty and a fine of 10,000 Euros on Espargaro for behaving aggressively and physically striking Morbidelli. This altercation was not the only on-track spat involving an Espargaro brother, as Pol Espargaro angered Marco Bezzecchi during Friday practice.
