This edition of Czech Republic Grand Prix will have been marked by a collision between three drivers from the given start. At turn 3, a spectacle of desolation was presented in the gravel trap with Vinales, Smith and guest Bradl out of action. What had happened? The first two mentioned had a version but the last one did not understand how it could have come to this. Fortunately, two witnesses witnessed the scene while Cal Crutchlow put his two cents behind the scenes although far from the stage…
To be honest, Vinales was hit by Smith in distress because he had just been hit by Bradl. And the Honda test driver, invited for the occasion, what does he say? “ I was braking at turn 3 and was a little close to Vinales when I felt like a crash behind me or something. I realized my situation once I found myself in the gravel. I know Bradley was also involved; I do not know what happened. I tried to get more information from race management, but there were no images of the accident. So I'm in doubt »
A version undermined by two pilots who saw what happened: Jack Miller et Franco Morbidelli. The Australian explains: “ it was right in front of me. Bradl just tried to pass everyone in turn 3. When he hit the brakes he blocked the front and made a strike with his bike. He hit Smith and they both slid onto Vinales who highsided. I had to stop altogether to let the three sliding motorbikes pass in front of my wheel. ».
The Italian adds: “ Bradl entered turn 3 too fast and lost the front ". Testimonies that brought out Cal Crutchlow wood about a pilot with whom he had trouble in his career: “ Bradl knows very well what happened, but since there are no images, he has lost his memory. But pilots saw it. And he lost control. He wanted to surpass everyone. It was a dangerous move. It's good to have guest riders in a race, but some believe they can use this opportunity to find a ride. Now, if they are there, it is precisely because there is no more for them ". He finishes : " I do not include Stoner who has nothing to prove and who does not want to run, nor Guintoli who is doing an excellent job ».
