Raul Fernandez confessed that a mis‑timed downshift at the start of the Italian Grand Prix will linger in his thoughts after his front‑row start at Mugello failed to deliver a podium.
Opening‑lap error robs mid‑field start‑line advantage
After securing a sprint‑race victory on Saturday for Trackhouse Aprilia, Fernandez launched into the main race from the middle of the front row. At the San Donato right‑hand corner he braked at the same marker used in the sprint, but the slipstream pushed him farther out as his bike failed to engage the proper gear. The resulting ultra‑wide line dropped him as low as 17th within the first lap.
Climb back to eighth and subsequent penalty
Despite the early setback, the Spaniard fought his way up the field to cross the finish line in eighth place. However, a post‑race review found contact with Honda rider Luca Marini, prompting the stewards to demote him one position, leaving him ninth. Team‑mate Ai Ogura attempted a late challenge on Francesco Bagnaia at the final corner but could not secure a podium finish for the squad.
Driver’s remorse and outlook
Fernández described the feeling on the bike as “really good,” yet expressed severe self‑criticism, admitting the mistake cost the team a potential podium and that he expects a restless night. He recalled his previous triumph at Phillip Island, noting that Mugello felt like the first event where he truly led the pack before the error.”.
Photo by: Gold and Goose Photography / Getty Images
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