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PICS: Iannone, Espargaro last turn crash

These pictures (see below for full sequence) show the dramatic last turn clash between Andrea Iannone and Pol Espargaro which resulted in both leaders crashing out of last Sunday's 125cc San Marino Grand Prix - and Iannone being handed a $5,000 fine.

Espargaro had made a brilliant comeback from 13th at the end of lap one to snatch the lead from home hero Iannone with three laps to go.

The last lap began with Espargaro, Iannone and world championship leader Julian Simon in close formation, with Espargaro keeping his Derbi defensive to leave Iannone without a chance to pass.

But heading into the final turn, Iannone dived for the inside of Espargaro, but lost the front wheel of his Ongetta Aprilia - taking them both out.

As Simon cruised to victory, Espargaro's bike was sent cart-wheeling over a tyre barrier, before the distraught young Spaniard confronted Iannone.

Some pushing and shoving followed before Iannone head-butted Espargaro (both still with helmets on) prompting the following judgement from Race Direction:

“On Sunday 6th September, during the 125cc race, rider Andrea Iannone (ITA) struck the head of rider Pol Espargaró (SPA), which is an action prejudicial to the interest of the sport. The Race Direction has decided to impose to rider Andrea Iannone a fine of USD 5,000. No appeal has been lodged.”

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These are always tough calls by Race Direction.

There's often a fine line between an over-taking maneuver being under control and one being 'hope for the best'.

Race Direction certainly doesnt want to have Racers 2nd guessing themselves and worrying about a fine if they happen to crash and take somebody else along with them.

That's part of racing.

In hindsight we can all see that this attempt at passing was going to result in a crash so as somebody already pointed out, Iannone's co-co butt to Espargaro handed Race Direction a gift.

Espargaro is naturally unhappy. This incident has cost him the difference between 6th and 4th place in the standings.
Posted by Steve929 (78 days ago)
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