What is a 'highside' crash in MotoGP?

A highside is when a bike's rear tyre slides out and then suddenly grips again, which can violently throw the rider up and over the handlebars. It is generally considered more dangerous than a 'lowside', where the bike simply slides out from under the rider.

Why was Fermín Aldeguer taken to hospital?

He was taken for precautionary checks after a heavy fall. This is standard procedure in MotoGP to ensure there are no hidden injuries, even if the rider is conscious and appears to be okay.

What happens during a Friday practice session?

Teams and riders use Friday practice sessions to fine-tune the motorcycle's setup (like suspension and electronics) and to test different tyre compounds to prepare for the weekend's qualifying and races.

Will Fermín Aldeguer be able to race this weekend?

His participation depends entirely on the results of his medical examinations. He must be examined and officially declared fit by the MotoGP doctors before he is allowed back on his bike.

Fermín Aldeguer Taken to Hospital After Crash in Dutch GP Practice

Gresini Racing's rookie rider Fermín Aldeguer was taken to hospital for precautionary checks after a heavy crash during Friday practice at the Dutch GP in Assen.

What has happened to Fermín Aldeguer?

During the first Friday session for the Dutch Grand Prix, MotoGP rookie Fermín Aldeguer suffered a heavy crash at the famous TT Circuit Assen. The Spanish rider, who races for the Gresini Racing team, was immediately attended to by trackside medical staff.

While he was reported to be conscious, he was first taken to the circuit’s medical centre for an initial assessment. Following that, as a standard precaution after such a significant accident, he was transferred to a local hospital for more detailed checks.

What kind of crash was it?

The incident was described as a ‘’. For a beginner, this is one of the more dangerous types of motorcycle crash. It happens when the rear tyre loses grip and slides sideways, but then suddenly regains traction. This sudden grip can act like a catapult, violently flipping the rider up and over the bike.

Aldeguer’s crash occurred at Turn 10 of the Assen circuit. The most important news is that he remained conscious throughout the incident and its aftermath, which is always the first and primary concern for everyone involved.

A MotoGP rider in Gresini-coloured leathers scraping a knee slider on the kerb at speed.

Why are Friday practice sessions so important?

A Grand Prix weekend is much more than just the main race on Sunday. The Friday sessions are crucial for riders and their teams to prepare. This is their first chance to ride the circuit and get a feel for the conditions.

During these sessions, the team works to find the perfect ‘setup’ for the bike. This involves making tiny adjustments to things like the suspension and electronics to make the bike handle well on that specific track. They also test different types of tyres to see which combination of grip and durability will work best for the long race on Sunday.

For a rookie like Aldeguer, this track time is even more valuable. He is still learning how to handle the incredible power of a MotoGP machine, which is a huge step up from the Moto2 category he competed in last year. Every lap provides vital data and experience.

Who is Fermín Aldeguer?

Fermín Aldeguer is a talented young Spanish rider making his debut in the top class of motorcycle racing this season. He is considered one of the sport’s most promising newcomers and rides a Ducati bike for the independent Gresini Racing team.

The transition to MotoGP is famously difficult. The bikes are faster, heavier, and more technically complex than in any other category. It’s common for new riders to have crashes as they explore the limits of the bike and learn how to get the maximum performance from it.

A mechanic making precise adjustments to the front suspension of a Gresini race bike in the pit garage.

What is the standard medical procedure?

MotoGP has an extremely high standard of medical care and very clear safety protocols. When a rider has a serious fall, the first response is from highly-qualified trackside doctors who can provide immediate care.

From there, the rider is taken to the circuit’s fully-equipped medical centre for a more thorough check-up. If the doctors have any concerns at all, or if they feel more detailed scans like a CT or X-ray are needed, the rider will be transferred to a nearby hospital. This is a routine and sensible precaution to ensure no injury goes undetected.

What does this mean for his race weekend?

Following the crash, Aldeguer was automatically ruled out of any further action on Friday. His ability to take part in the rest of the weekend – including Saturday’s and , and Sunday’s main Grand Prix – is now uncertain.

Before any rider is allowed back on track after a significant crash, they must be officially declared medically fit by the championship’s own doctors. The final decision will be based entirely on the results of his hospital checks. Rider safety is always the number one priority, and no risks will be taken with his health.

An aerial view of several MotoGP bikes battling through the final chicane at the Assen circuit in front of a large crowd.

Quick Takeaways

Rookie rider Fermín Aldeguer had a heavy crash during Friday practice for the Dutch GP.
He was conscious but has been taken to hospital for precautionary medical checks.
Crashes are a common part of a rookie’s learning process as they adapt to the powerful MotoGP bikes.
His participation in the rest of the race weekend depends on him being declared medically fit by doctors.