Marquez tops Malaysia MotoGP practice as Martin battles injury

Marc Marquez made a strong start to the Malaysian Grand Prix weekend by topping the opening MotoGP practice session at Sepang, while championship rival Jorge Martin received medical clearance to continue competing despite a fractured right wrist.

The Ducati rider recorded a time of 1:58.912 to lead the opening session. Marco Bezzecchi and Pedro Acosta were also among the fastest riders, each finishing 0.474 seconds behind Marquez. Martin, meanwhile, completed the session in 20th place, 1.835 seconds off the pace.

Martin's participation remained in doubt after he fractured his right wrist in a crash during the sprint at the Australian Grand Prix six days earlier. The 2024 world champion was cleared to ride following medical checks and completed 12 laps in the opening session before undergoing a further assessment.

However, the Spaniard's afternoon was cut short. After completing only three laps in the later Practice session, Martin returned to the garage to focus on recovery. Aprilia and the medical team opted against pushing him further, with his condition set to be reassessed before Saturday's track action.

The two title contenders entered the Malaysian weekend separated by just 10 points, with Marquez leading the championship. The Spaniard's strong pace gives him an early opportunity to extend that advantage, while Martin faces the additional challenge of managing his injury and preparing for qualifying and the sprint.