MotoGP: Jorge Martin scores iconic victory in sprint race at Indian Grand Prix

MotoGP championship contender Jorge Martin on Saturday topped the 11-lap sprint race ahead of the Indian Grand Prix.

The Mooney VR46 Racing Team rider and Martin's rival Marco Bezzecchi had set the qualifying time at one minute, 43.9470 becoming the clear favourite for the sprint race and the marquee event at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida on Sunday.

Ducati's Francesco Bagnaia finished second as Honda's Marc Marquez got the last podium spot.

The 11-lap sprint race that was meant to start at 3:30pm local time was pushed back to 5pm due to extreme heat - it was also shortened for the same reason.

While the race also saw a delay owing to incessant rain as everyone waited for the track to dry.

An unfortunate incident ocurred during the first lap of the sprint when pole-sitter Bezzecchi and teammate Luca Marini crashed into each other also affecting Stefan Bradl and Pol Espargaro.

Bezzecchi was pushed down to the 17th position but managed to finish fifth.