Portugal Colonial - Martin wins Austrian MotoGP sprint after Acosta crash

Martin started from pole after edging Marquez in qualifying at the Red Bull Ring, but Acosta swept past the title rivals on the opening lap of the sprint.

The KTM rider looked set for a second sprint win of the season before sliding off his bike after running wide into the gravel with less than four laps to go, dropping down the order and eventually being forced to retire.

Martin took advantage of Acosta's mishap as the Aprilia rider moved three points clear of Marquez in the overall standings.

Ducati star Marquez finished second ahead of Marco Bezzecchi on the other factory Aprilia.

"I was a bit lucky with Pedro's crash because without it I would be second," said Martin, who had relinquished his championship lead last weekend after suffering from nerve compression in his right arm.

"I thought my chances were over but I never gave up... and was pushing to my maximum. To come from behind and then win at the end is so good."

"We are ready for tomorrow. I hope we can continue with this pace," added the 2024 world champion.

Japan's Ai Ogura took fourth place in front of Alex Marquez and two-time former world champion Francesco Bagnaia.

Martin secured his third pole of the season earlier on Saturday, beating Marquez by just 0.015 seconds in a closely fought qualifying session. Acosta completed an all-Spanish front row after setting the pace in Friday's practice.

Marquez has reignited his title challenge by winning five of the last seven races.

Acosta, racing at KTM's home circuit, will try to make amends on Sunday as he targets the first MotoGP victory of his career. He will leave the Austrian team to join Marquez at Ducati next season.

C.Amaral--PC