Remy Gardner and Garrett Gerloff have been ruled unfit to continue following a crash on the opening lap of Race 1 at the World Superbike event in Hungary. Gardner was involved in a multi-rider collision at turn 2 of the race at Balaton. The Australian rider was taken to the medical center, where he was diagnosed with a suspected back contusion and a concussion before being transferred to a hospital and declared ineligible to race. This disqualification prevents him from competing in the two World Superbike races scheduled for Sunday.
Gardner, who was recently confirmed to race with GRT Yamaha in the 2026 and 2027 seasons, was one of three riders caught up in the crash that did not allow for a race restart of their bikes. Other riders affected were Iker Lecuona and Ryan Vickers, whose machines weren’t ready in time for the restart.
Danilo Petrucci had to begin the race from behind the grid as he missed the quick start procedure and entered the race from the pit lane after a warm-up lap; he eventually finished fifth. Andrea Iannone received a double-long lap penalty for reckless riding, which he served early in the resumed race and finished 13th.
The incident also involved Xavi Vierge, who finished eighth in the restarted race, and Yari Montella, who crossed the line in seventh. Both Bimota riders ended up in the run-off area after the crash but were able to continue. In the restart, Alex Rins finished sixth and Axel Bassani came in 10th.
Garrett Gerloff was the sole Kawasaki rider to restart the race, concluding in ninth place after 20 laps. He was also taken to the medical center following the race, where he was diagnosed with a back injury. According to WorldSBK, Gerloff’s symptoms emerged only after Race 1, resulting in his declaration as unfit to race on Sunday.
Fan Take: This incident is significant for racing fans as it impacts the lineup of key riders, potentially altering the competition’s dynamics. It also highlights the sport’s inherent risks and the critical importance of rider safety and medical assessments in World Superbike racing.
