Gresini Racing Puts Iker Lecuona on Standby
The team eyes Iker Lecuona as a potential substitute for the injured Fermin Aldeguer at the Australian Grand Prix.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Motorsports
Gresini Racing has officially placed Iker Lecuona on standby to fill in for Fermin Aldeguer, who is recovering from a hand injury sustained at the Mandalika Grand Prix. Lecuona is prepared to travel to Melbourne and proceed to Phillip Island if he is needed for the race next week.
Why it matters
The team is taking a proactive approach to rider availability to avoid risks regarding Aldeguer's recovery status. By securing a familiar substitute, Gresini Racing ensures they are prepared to field a full entry at the upcoming Australian Grand Prix.
Fermin Aldeguer, who competes under racing number 54, sustained his injury during the recent Mandalika Grand Prix. Iker Lecuona, currently an Aruba rider, has already logged two substitute outings on a Gresini Ducati earlier this season.
The players
Gresini Racing
This Italian racing team is based in Faenza and competes at the highest levels of motorcycle road racing.
Iker Lecuona
He is a professional motorcycle racer who currently competes as an Aruba rider.
Fermin Aldeguer
He is a professional rider whose season has been complicated by a hand injury suffered at the Mandalika Grand Prix.
The details
Lecuona previously competed for the team at events in Balaton and Silverstone, providing him with recent experience on the Gresini Ducati machinery. Should he be activated, he will travel to Melbourne before moving on to the circuit at Phillip Island.
Timeline
October 2026: Final Superbike World Championship round held at Jerez.
Late October 2026: Australian Grand Prix scheduled at Phillip Island.
Season Trajectory
This move highlights the high-stakes nature of the 2026 MotoGP season calendar, where injury management directly impacts team points and standing. The decision allows Gresini Racing to maintain competitive balance as the championship enters its final stages.
The potential substitution directly impacts team standings and points calculations for the remainder of the season. Fans should monitor roster updates for number 54 to determine if Aldeguer will be cleared for the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island.
The takeaway
Proactive roster management is essential for teams navigating the physical toll of a competitive racing season. By utilizing experienced reserve riders, teams can mitigate the impact of unforeseen injuries on their final championship standings.
Further reading
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