Why MotoGP restarted the Catalunya GP three times

MotoGP chief Carmelo Ezpeleta has defended the decision to restart the Catalunya Grand Prix for a third time after two serious crashes shocked the paddock. The race at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya became one of the most dramatic events of the 2026 MotoGP season.

The first major accident happened when Pedro Acosta suffered a technical problem on his KTM bike during the race. His machine suddenly slowed down, leaving Alex Marquez with almost no time to react. Marquez crashed heavily and was taken to the medical centre before later going to hospital with collarbone and back injuries. Doctors later confirmed he would miss the next two MotoGP rounds while he recovered.

After the first red flag, race officials decided to restart the Grand Prix. However, another frightening crash happened shortly after the second start. Johann Zarco became involved in an accident with Francesco Bagnaia and Luca Marini at the first corner. Zarco suffered serious knee ligament injuries and later required surgery. The incident caused another red flag and increased criticism from some riders and fans.

Despite the tension and concern in the paddock, MotoGP organisers allowed a third and final restart. The race distance was reduced to 12 laps and eventually won by Fabio Di Giannantonio, who secured an emotional victory after such a chaotic afternoon.

Ezpeleta admitted the accidents were very difficult to watch and described them as some of the worst moments in motorsport. He explained that everyone in MotoGP was deeply worried when the injured riders were taken away for treatment. However, he also said the championship had to follow the rules already in place. According to Ezpeleta, if the circuit was considered safe and the riders were medically fit to continue, there was no rule preventing another restart.

He also pointed out that cancelling the race completely could have affected the championship standings unfairly. MotoGP officials believed continuing the race was the fairest option for all teams and riders competing for points during the season. Ezpeleta added that changes to the regulations could still be discussed calmly in the future, but decisions should not be made only because emotions were running high after a dangerous incident.

Not every rider agreed with the decision. Acosta was one of several competitors who said another restart was unnecessary after two heavy crashes had already happened. Other riders also admitted they felt upset and emotionally affected knowing fellow racers were in hospital while the event continued. The debate has restarted discussions about rider safety and whether MotoGP should review its restart rules for the future.

Many fans also shared strong opinions online. Some believed MotoGP made the correct choice because the accidents were not caused by the track itself, while others argued that safety should always come before the championship battle. The events in Catalunya have once again highlighted how dangerous motorcycle racing can be, even with modern safety technology and medical support.