Mandalika, Indonesia – Luca Marini experienced a major setback at the Indonesian GP Sprint when an eight-second penalty for low tire pressure erased his impressive sixth-place finish. The Honda HRC Castrol rider’s result was post-race disqualified, causing frustration after one of his strongest 2025 MotoGP performances.
Promising Run Undone by Post-Race Penalty
Marini began the weekend strongly, qualifying well and running competitively with the race leaders on a challenging Mandalika circuit that has troubled many top competitors. He maintained a strong, consistent pace, appearing set to deliver his best Sprint outcome with Honda to date. However, following the race, officials confirmed his rear tire pressure was below the regulated minimum.
The FIM Stewards Panel imposed an eight-second penalty as per MotoGP rules for Sprint races, which immediately dropped Marini from sixth to 13th place, removing him from the points standings.
“Rule recap: Eight-second penalty for a Sprint race, 16 seconds in a Grand Prix.”
Efforts to Correct Issues During Race Fell Short
Reportedly, Marini attempted to increase his tire temperature and pressure during the race, even permitting his teammate Joan Mir to pass him in hopes of raising rear tire compliance. Despite these efforts, the race sensors still recorded a violation, leading to the penalty decision.
Race Context and Implications for Honda
Marini’s penalty was part of a strong performance day for Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi, who secured victory ahead of Fermín Aldeguer and Raúl Fernández. Honda riders faced mixed fortunes: Joan Mir finished fifth, becoming the highest-placed Honda rider after Marini’s penalty, while Alex Márquez narrowly missed the podium in fourth. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges for Honda during this difficult season.
The penalty is a harsh blow to Marini, who had been showing tangible progress amid a tough year for both himself and the Honda team.
