Jorge Martin charges from eighth to win French GP sprint, closes gap to Bezzecchi

LE MANS: Aprilia’s Jorge Martin produced a stunning comeback on Saturday to win the French Grand Prix sprint at Le Mans, climbing from eighth on the grid to tighten the championship battle with teammate and series leader Marco Bezzecchi.

Ducati’s pole-sitter Francesco Bagnaia finished second, while Bezzecchi secured third place to maintain his lead in the standings, though his advantage has now been reduced.

The race also saw drama on the final lap as Ducati’s reigning world champion Marc Marquez crashed heavily and failed to finish.

Martin’s victory, his record-extending 18th sprint win as the 2024 champion, brings him within six points of Bezzecchi heading into Sunday’s main race.

KTM’s Pedro Acosta finished fourth, while home favourite Fabio Quartararo of Yamaha completed the top five.