MotoGP riders open up on controversial Qatar GP: 'I was a bit worried'

Jorge Martin has been given the all-clear to participate in the Qatar Grand Prix's Free Practice 1, offering him a potential lifeline to extend his championship aspirations. The Aprilia rider had to withdraw from the Malaysian Grand Prix due to persistent wrist pain following a break suffered in Australia. After a brief stint in Spain, Martin is set to return to Losail for another opportunity at competing.

However, his participation beyond FP1 will hinge on a MotoGP medical assessment. With three races remaining, Martin's deficit of 44 points makes it difficult to prevent Marc Marquez from clinching the title. To make matters worse, Marquez would need only a 30-point lead to secure the championship by the end of the weekend's action.

In addition to Martin, two other Spanish riders have been cleared to race at Losail. Fermin Aldeguer from Gresini Ducati will return to action after breaking his hand in Indonesia, while Raul Fernandez from Trackhouse Aprilia will attempt to complete a full weekend after a finger injury at the same race. Both competitors have faced their share of injuries this season, with Fernandez's first-corner mishap at Balaton Park being a low point for both of them.

Notably, Alex Marquez, who sustained a right collarbone fracture during the Barcelona event in May, will not be present at the Gresini pit during the Qatar Grand Prix. His teammate, Iker Lecuona, will temporarily take over Aldeguer's role on the Ducati team.