Moto3 race delayed after sighting lap crash at SIC, two riders airlifted to hospital


Track marshals inspect the track after an incident on the sighting lap prior to the start of the Moto3 race of the Grand Prix of Malaysia at the Sepang International Circuit in Sepang, Malaysia, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

SEPANG: The Moto3 race at the PETRONAS Grand Prix of Malaysia had to be temporarily delayed after a massive crash occurred during the sighting lap at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) on Sunday (Oct 26).

The incident involved newly-crowned Moto3 world champion Jose Antonio Rudea, who rode into a slow-riding Noah Dettwiler on the sighting lap. 

Updates from the medical director have confirmed that both riders “are conscious” and have been airlifted to the hospital for further medical checks. 

The race, which was supposed to start at noon, was delayed to 1.45pm to give time for the track to be inspected, and for the medical helicopter to return to the track before the Moto3 race gets underway. 

It has also been confirmed that the Moto3 race will be a 10-lap race instead of 15 laps. 

The delay also sees the Moto2 race pushed to start at 4.30pm, after the main race at 3pm. 

 

 

 

 

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