Moodley back in the Moto3 points as recovery gains pace
18-year-old Moto3 rider Ruche Moodley, recently back from an arm injury, delivered a strong performance at the Aragon Grand Prix. Building on a steady return at Silverstone, the South African progressed directly into Qualifying 2 and finished the race in 14th place. His improving fitness, smart race strategy, and growing confidence marked another milestone in his rookie season.
Image: Supplied / BOE Motorsports
Just last week, this publication ran the story of 18-year-old Moto3 rider Ruche Moodley, who made headlines with his gutsy return to racing at Silverstone after fracturing his arm a few weeks prior at the Spanish GP.
Back then, Moodley, still enduring discomfort, didn’t chase glory, but showed maturity beyond his years by focusing on finishing the race and playing the long game. He didn’t pick up any points, but he earned miles on his healing arm in a demonstration of maturity, resilience, and race smarts.
That patience paid off. At round eight of the Moto3 World Championship at Aragon, Spain, Moodley — South Africa’s sole representative — showed what a week of recovery can do.
“I knew that Silverstone was going to be tough. But with a bit more time to build more strength in my injured arm, I had a good feeling going into the Aragon race,” said the teenager.
Moodley started the weekend strongly, ending the first practice in 10th and securing a direct slot into Qualifying 2.
“It was great to keep up the early pace from the start of the weekend. I had a good feeling with the bike and delivered a lap that was quick enough to get into Q2. I knew from there it was game on.”
He qualified 14th after running alone in the session, opting for clean laps over risky drafting tactics.
Race day was tight and tactical. Aragon is known for its overtaking opportunities and long straights, and Moodley approached it with characteristic patience.
“I knew it was a long race here and that tyre strategy would come into play. Our strategy since the start of my rookie season has been to complete every race as we learn all the tracks of the calendar.”
As the laps wore on, Moodley gained ground and confidence. His fastest race lap beat his qualifying time and had him close to the leaders.
“There was a massive 10-bike group battling for the lead. I was just off that pack, in a middle ground … I could see them, but I was just too far back to get a slipstream.”
In the end, Moodley crossed the line in a solid 14th spot, collecting more championship points in his rookie season.
“All in all, I am really pleased at how this weekend progressed. It was a good showing now that my arm is getting stronger. We can only go upwards from here,” said South Africa’s latest comeback kid.