Sepang Notebook: Rider Substitution and Track Context for Round 19

Aldeguer Sidelined for Malaysian Grand Prix

Hand injuries present significant physical hurdles across Sepang's heavy braking zones and rapid direction changes. Following surgery to address a fractured base of the first metacarpal in his right hand, sustained during a crash from podium contention at Mandalika, Fermin Aldeguer was forced to miss Round 19 of the 2026 MotoGP season in Malaysia.

Lecuona Steps In on the Number 54

With medical recovery continuing after that Indonesian Grand Prix accident, the team required an experienced stand-in for the Malaysian round. The official update confirmed Fermin Aldeguer Ruled Out of Malaysian GP as Iker Lecuona Deputises at Sepang, ensuring the machine remained on track. Lecuona, who finished as the 2026 WorldSBK runner-up, extended his reserve duties after having already substituted on the number 54 entry at the preceding event in Australia.

Official reference: Aldeguer out of Malaysian GP.