DIXON BOUNCES BACK FROM QATAR CRASH TO FIND SPEED
6 Nov 2026·
Jake Dixon’s return to MotoGP began with a crash, but the HRC stand-in showed encouraging progress in Qatar as he adapted to the factory Honda and received guidance from Cal Crutchlow.
Dixon, who races for HRC in WorldSBK, was making his first MotoGP appearance since 2021 after stepping in for Joan Mir. Just four minutes into his first session, he had a major tank-slapper and then lost the front a few corners later. He ended the opening session last, 3.148 seconds off the pace.
The 30-year-old responded in the evening session, taking more than two seconds off his time and finishing only two tenths behind LCR Honda rider Diogo Moreira. Dixon credited the team’s work between sessions for helping him understand the bike and identify where he could improve.
“We did not have the best start to the day, it has to be said. I’m really sorry for the guys, but it’s such a professional team that we all bounced back and got to it,” he said. He added that he was “happy with the speed we showed today” and that the next step was to work out which areas would make the biggest difference.
Crutchlow, who made six race appearances for LCR earlier in the season, watched Dixon from the pits and offered advice based on his recent experience with the Honda. Dixon said the former MotoGP rider had been “a huge help”, providing clear insight and criticism he welcomed.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Dixon joked: “Cal’s a pain in my arse, that’s what Cal is!” He quickly made clear the affection behind the remark: “I absolutely love him, though. He’s such a character, and he’s great to have in my corner this weekend.”
Dixon said Crutchlow’s familiarity with the bike made his feedback especially useful. He also recalled Crutchlow laughing after the tank-slapper, then reacting with concern when Dixon crashed moments later. “He’s just such a funny guy. It’s great to have him around,” Dixon said.
Johann Zarco was the quickest Honda rider in eighth, while Dixon’s HRC team-mate Luca Marini finished 13th.