Pramac
Jorge Martin wheels his Pramac Racing entry to victory in the Japanese Grand Prix. (Michelin Motorsport Photo)

Martin Survives Rain-Shortened Japanese Grand Prix

Fresh off a victory in the San Marino Grand Prix two races ago, Jorge Martin continued his MotoGP championship surge on Sunday in the Japanese Grand Prix. 

Martin endured wet conditions as the race was red flagged on lap 12, with the series eventually making the event official, 12 laps short of the scheduled distance. He started on pole and regained control of the lead for the final time on lap six after briefly falling to fourth early. 

Despite the race ending early, full points were awarded, meaning Martin cut more into championship leader Francesco Bagnaia’s points lead. Now, Martin trails the reigning champ by three points with only six races remaining. 

Martin’s title rival Bagnaia ended the Japanese Grand Prix in second, 1.4 seconds behind the Pramac Racing driver. 

Marc Marquez rounded out the podium finishers in third. 

Last week’s Indian Grand Prix winner Marco Bezzecchi claimed fourth, followed by Aleix Espargaro in fifth position.