Aggressive start ends in disaster for Fermín Aldeguer

Gresini Ducati rookie Fermin Aldeguer receives a long lap penalty after a crash with Miguel Oliveira during the Argentina MotoGP sprint race.

BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP's Spanish rider Fermin Aldeguer (left) and Prima Pramac Yamaha's Portuguese rider Miguel Oliveira skid off the track after crashing during the MotoGP Argentina Grand Prix sprint race at the Termas de Rio Hondo circuit in Santiago del Estero, Argentina, on March 15, 2025. Photo by Luis Robayo/AFP

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Gresini Ducati rookie Fermin Aldeguer arrived at the Argentina MotoGP sprint race eager to make a strong impression, but his ambition led to an unfortunate incident. The 19-year-old, MotoGP’s youngest rider this season, was handed a long lap penalty after a collision with Miguel Oliveira, which forced the Pramac Ducati rider to retire from the race.

Aldeguer had shown promise throughout the weekend at the Termas de Río Hondo Circuit. He impressed during the second free practice session, clocking the sixth-fastest lap, raising hopes for a direct entry into Q2. However, things did not go as planned. While his teammate Alex Marquez delivered a strong qualifying session, Aldeguer struggled to find pace, ultimately securing 14th place on the grid—just ahead of fellow rookie Ai Ogura.

At the start of the sprint, Aldeguer lost multiple positions due to a sluggish getaway. Determined to recover, he pushed aggressively through the midfield, but his strategy backfired dramatically.

Crash with Oliveira sparks controversy

On lap five, while attempting to overtake Miguel Oliveira, Aldeguer lost control of his bike, causing both riders to crash into the gravel. The incident ended Oliveira’s race, while Aldeguer was able to remount but finished outside the points.

Medical teams rushed to assess Oliveira, fearing a collarbone injury. Although initial scans ruled out fractures, the Portuguese rider was taken to the hospital for further evaluation. His participation in Sunday’s main race remained uncertain, pending additional medical checks.

Even before Aldeguer returned to the paddock, the Race Direction had announced its decision. The stewards deemed the move reckless and issued the Gresini Ducati rider a long lap penalty for the next Grand Prix.

Aldeguer acknowledges mistake and accepts penalty

Following the race, Aldeguer took responsibility for the crash and expressed remorse for his actions.

"It was my mistake, no doubt. I was too impatient and wanted too much in too little time. Miguel was also involved in the crash, and I am really sorry. I apologize to him and the Pramac team," Aldeguer said.

Despite the setback, the Spanish rookie remained optimistic, emphasizing that he had learned a valuable lesson.

"I started this race believing I could fight for seventh place. Maybe that made me too aggressive and impatient. This is something I need to improve on in the future," he added.

With a slight smile, Aldeguer jokingly remarked, "Tomorrow during warm-up, I have to practice doing long laps."

Gresini Ducati finds positives despite rookie’s struggles

While Aldeguer’s race ended in disappointment, Gresini Ducati had reasons to celebrate. His teammate Alex Marquez delivered an excellent performance, securing a podium finish in the sprint race. The result highlighted the team’s competitiveness and the potential of their Ducati package.

Marquez’s success further underscored the importance of experience in handling race pressure—something Aldeguer will need to develop as the season progresses.

A tough challenge awaits Aldeguer at the next Grand Prix

With a long lap penalty looming, Aldeguer will face an uphill battle at the next round. The Spanish rookie must now focus on making amends and proving that he can learn from his mistakes.

The 2025 MotoGP season is still in its early stages, and while Aldeguer’s raw speed is evident, consistency and racecraft will be crucial for his development. As he heads into the next Grand Prix, all eyes will be on how he responds to his first major setback in MotoGP.