The 10 worst crashes in MotoGP history

Welcome to the fascinating and dangerous world of MotoGP ! As two-wheeled enthusiasts, we know that motorcycle racing is not for the faint of heart. MotoGP riders are true extreme athletes , ready to do anything to claim victory. However, with speeds that can exceed 350 km/h, the slightest misstep can lead to spectacular, sometimes terrifying, accidents .

Today we bring you a look at the 10 worst crashes in MotoGP history . These tragic moments, while demonstrating the dangerous nature of the sport, were also catalysts for safety improvements. Hold on tight, these moments have left an indelible mark on the world of motorcycle racing!

1. The fall of Valentino Rossi in Mugello (2017)

The Italian Grand Prix at Mugello is one of the most iconic circuits in MotoGP. In 2017, one of the most legendary riders, Valentino Rossi , suffered a terrifying accident there. While approaching a corner at high speed, Rossi lost control of his bike, which threw him violently onto the tarmac. The scene, immortalized by thousands of fans in attendance, remains etched in the memory. Although Rossi escaped without major injuries, the incident is a reminder of the deadly risks that even the best riders face.

2. Randy Mamola's terrible fall at Assen (1984)

Randy Mamola 's crash at Assen in 1984 is etched in MotoGP history for its violence . Loss of grip, excessive speed and a spectacular crash saw Mamola literally fly through the air before landing hard. Although he escaped unharmed, the accident shocked fans and highlighted the importance of future improvements in rider safety .

3. Jorge Lorenzo's spectacular fall in Assen (2013)

Jorge Lorenzo , a two-time world champion at the time, suffered a spectacular crash at Assen in 2013. After losing the front end of his bike at full speed, he was thrown violently into the air. The impact was so violent that he fractured his collarbone. The incident highlighted the exceptional ability of riders to handle extreme situations and recover quickly, with Lorenzo getting back on the bike just two days after surgery.

4. Sete Gibernau's accident in Jerez (2005)

In 2005, the Jerez circuit witnessed another defining moment: Sete Gibernau , then one of the championship favourites, suffered a terrible accident. During a fierce battle with Valentino Rossi , a collision sent them both off the track, but it is Gibernau who comes out the most affected. He is violently thrown onto the gravel, and his motorcycle disintegrates under the impact. This accident not only has repercussions on the health of the rider, but also on his career, because he will never regain his performance level after this incident.

5. Dani Pedrosa's fall in Sepang (2011)

The 2011 Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang will long be remembered for Dani Pedrosa 's violent crash. As he approached a technical corner at high speed, Pedrosa lost control and crashed heavily. The bike broke apart around him, and the rider was thrown onto the track. Although he escaped relatively unscathed, the accident raised questions about safety measures in extreme heat conditions such as Sepang.

6. Nicky Hayden's Tragic Accident (2017)

While Nicky Hayden ’s accident didn’t happen on a MotoGP track, it still left a deep mark on the community. In 2017, while training on his bike in Italy, Hayden was hit by a car. Despite efforts to save him, the former MotoGP World Champion died from his injuries, sending shockwaves through the sporting world. The tragic accident reinforced the importance of safety for both professional and amateur cyclists.

7. Marc Marquez's fall at Phillip Island (2019)

Marc Márquez , famous for his daring manoeuvres, suffered a spectacular crash in 2019 at the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island . As he attempted a risky manoeuvre around a fast corner, he lost grip and was thrown into the air. The ever-tenacious Márquez escaped without serious injury, but the incident demonstrates how slim the margins for error are at such high speeds.

8. Tito Rabat's terrifying accident at Silverstone (2018)

In 2018, the British Grand Prix at Silverstone was the scene of a terrifying accident for Tito Rabat . In the pouring rain, Rabat lost control of his bike, slid across the track and was hit by another bike. The injuries he sustained, including several fractures, ended his season prematurely. The incident reignited debate over the safety of racing in extreme weather conditions.

9. Maverick Viñales' fall in Assen (2017)

Assen , known as the “Cathedral of Speed,” witnessed another dramatic moment in 2017 when Maverick Viñales crashed violently mid-race. Thrown into the air, he landed hard on the track, but miraculously escaped with minor injuries. The crash is a reminder of the ever-present risks faced by drivers, even on the most familiar circuits.

10. Loris Capirossi's accident at Laguna Seca (2008)

In 2008, the famous " Corkscrew " corner at Laguna Seca in the United States was the scene of a spectacular fall for Loris Capirossi . The driver lost control while approaching this very technical corner and crashed into the safety barriers. The The violence of the impact caused him multiple fractures, but his courage and perseverance allowed him to return to the track after a long convalescence.

These accidents, while frightening, are a testament to the resilience and courage of MotoGP riders. Fortunately, continued advances in safety and equipment have significantly reduced the risk of serious injury over the years. These unforgettable moments, etched in MotoGP history, remind us that behind every victory, there is a dose of danger and challenge that thrills fans around the world.