Pole man Gabriel Rodrigo (RBA BOE Skull Rider) got the launch as the lights went out to lead into Turn 1, with Bezzecchi slotting in behind the Argentine rider after John McPhee (CIP – Green Power) got a slightly sluggish get away from P2, thus allowing Martin to make up one place from P4 on the grid. The front four initially threatened to make an early getaway but it soon became a leading group of thirteen at the front, with the lead for the race chopping and changing between the two main title contenders, along with the likes of Rodrigo and the hard-charging Binder.

Then on lap 14, there was a massive moment for Martin heading into Turn 11. Martin didn’t want to yield his position at the front and as he moved across to take the racing line for the corner, he came into contact with Bezzecchi. The Honda rider somehow managed to stay upright on the brakes without losing too much time.

This left Binder to lead with Bezzecchi and McPhee slotting in behind, Martin dropped down to fifth. However, a lap later with five to go, disaster struck. Trying to get back on terms with the leaders, Martin got on the curb under braking and was slightly off line while battling Dennis Foggia (SKY Racing Team VR46) and Tony Arbolino (Marinelli Snipers Team). Subsequently, the Spaniard lost the front of his Honda and crashed out of contention. This came after teammate Di Giannantonio suffered a huge highside at Turn 12, the Italian heading to hospital for further checks.