The Moto3 Grand Prix in Sepang (Malaysia) was marked by an episode as unexpected as it was shocking. Even before the starting grid was formed, a serious accident involving José Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and Noah Dettwiler (CIP Green Power) brought the day to a halt and forced the activity to stop with a red flag.
The incident occurred during the installation laps, when the riders were heading toward the grid. Dettwiler, who was riding slowly for reasons still under investigation, was hit head-on by Rueda, who was apparently looking at his dashboard at that moment and was unable to avoid the Swiss rider.
"Rueda is awake and alert, with a suspected hand fracture and several contusions," the championship organization reported minutes after the incident, confirming that both riders were conscious when they received initial medical attention.
Images of the crash quickly spread throughout the paddock and caused shock among teams and spectators. MotoGP rider Joan Mir, visibly affected, commented: "It's difficult to put on the suit after what happened in Moto3. We have some slightly more favorable news from the organization, and I hope the situation continues to improve as the hours go by."
The impact was so violent that the bikes were destroyed and the riders had to be airlifted by helicopter to Kuala Lumpur hospital, which led to the race being rescheduled. Initially scheduled for 15 laps, the competition was delayed by one hour and forty minutes and was ultimately reduced to 10 laps, since the medical helicopters could not leave the circuit until the transfers were completed.
Hours later, the organization issued another medical report that brought some relief: "Rueda is awake and alert, with a suspected hand fracture and several contusions," the official statement reiterated. Regarding Dettwiler, initial reports indicated that he is also out of danger, although he remains under observation and is awaiting further tests.
