Imagine two MotoGP riders colliding in a heart-stopping crash, leaving one injured and the other facing severe penalties. This is exactly what happened between Marco Bezzecchi and Marc Marquez at Lombok, and the fallout is still making waves. But here's where it gets controversial: the FIM MotoGP Stewards have slapped Bezzecchi with a double Long Lap penalty for the incident, marking his second offense this season. This decision has sparked debates among fans and experts alike—was it a fair call, or did the stewards go too far? Let’s dive into the details.
The clash between Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) and Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) occurred on Lap 1 in Lombok, and it’s been the talk of the paddock ever since. After an initial hearing couldn’t take place in Indonesia post-race, the stewards finally met with Bezzecchi and his team in Australia. The result? A double Long Lap penalty for the Italian rider, which he’ll serve at the upcoming Phillip Island Grand Prix. Meanwhile, Marquez is sitting this one out as he recovers from shoulder surgery following the crash—a stark reminder of the high stakes in this sport.
And this is the part most people miss: Bezzecchi’s penalty isn’t just about this single incident; it’s compounded by his previous offense earlier in the season. This raises a thought-provoking question: Should repeat offenses carry heavier penalties, or is this setting a precedent that could unfairly target certain riders? Weigh in below—do you think the stewards made the right call, or is this punishment too harsh?
For those who missed the action, you can watch the crash below to see exactly how it unfolded. It’s a stark reminder of the split-second decisions that can change the course of a race—and a rider’s season. What’s your take on the incident? Let us know in the comments!
