Jorge Martin’s Triumph in 2024
Last season, Jorge Martin made history by bringing the fight to the factory Ducati team, securing his first MotoGP world championship title with a series of impressive performances. He outshone Francesco Bagnaia, a formidable rival, with his consistency and sheer determination. Martin’s stellar campaign was marked by numerous podium finishes and a few well-earned victories, earning him the respect and admiration of fans and fellow riders alike. His ability to perform under pressure and adapt to changing conditions on the track was a testament to his remarkable talent and competitive spirit.
A New Chapter with Aprilia
Despite his championship success, Martin did not secure a seat with the factory Ducati squad. Instead, he made a significant move to Aprilia, joining forces with Marco Bezzecchi for the 2025 season. This decision came as a surprise to many in the paddock, given Martin’s deep roots with Ducati’s satellite team Pramac since his MotoGP debut in 2021. The transition to a new team and a different bike is always challenging, but Aprilia, known for its innovative approach and strong development team, has the potential to provide Martin with the tools he needs to continue his winning ways.
Pre-Season Setbacks
Martin’s journey into the 2025 season hit a major roadblock during pre-season testing in Sepang. A severe crash left him with fractures in his right hand and left foot, forcing him to withdraw from the remaining tests. Adding to his woes, additional injuries to his left hand sustained during a training session required surgery, ultimately leading to his absence from the season-opening Thai GP. These setbacks have undoubtedly impacted his preparation and confidence, crucial elements for any rider at the start of a new season.
Expert Opinions on Martin’s Future
TNT Sports MotoGP presenter Suzi Perry and pundit Neil Hodgson have both weighed in on Martin’s situation, offering their insights on the challenges he faces. Perry, who was deeply impressed by Martin’s performances in 2024, expressed concern about the difficulties he might encounter with his new team. "It’s a difficult start for Jorge Martin," she told Autosport. "I hope that Aprilia will give him the tools to do what we know he can do, but I do think he’s up against it. And with this crash in testing, it’s not what any rider wants at the start of a season."
The Impact of Ducati’s Decision
Hodgson echoed Perry’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of pre-season testing and the impact of Martin’s injuries on his chances of contending for the world title. "I think if Martin had been able to do all the pre-season testing, I would talk about him in the mix with those two other riders," Hodgson said. "But as it stands, going into round one, I think he’s going to be a little bit behind because he’s not been able to test the new bike. It just takes a while to really understand a motorcycle, and to race it on the absolute limit takes confidence. His confidence will be a little bit battered and bruised having crashed last time out."
The decision by Ducati to sign Marc Marquez, an eight-time world champion, over Martin has been a topic of heated debate in the paddock. Perry was critical of this move, stating, "I think what happened to him [Martin] at Ducati was extraordinary – not in a good way. He got himself into a corner by saying that he would leave if he didn’t get the red bike, if he didn’t get the factory bike. I think he was ill-advised actually, if I’m honest. I don’t think he should have said those things, I think he should have left that door open a little bit." The loss of Martin, along with Enea Bastianini and Marco Bezzecchi, from the Ducati camp was seen as a significant misstep by many, suggesting that the team’s short-term gain might come at a long-term cost.
Looking Ahead
While the early setbacks are a cause for concern, there is still much to be optimistic about for Martin and his Aprilia Racing Team. Martin’s talent and resilience are undeniable, and with time to recover and familiarize himself with the new bike, he could very well bounce back strong. Aprilia, too, has a solid track record of developing competitive machines, and the team’s engineering and support staff are highly regarded in the paddock.
TNT Sports and discovery+ will bring all the action from the 2025 MotoGP season live to viewers, starting with the Thailand Grand Prix on Friday, 28 February. With comprehensive coverage of every race, including MotoGP, FIM World Superbikes, Bennetts British Superbikes, and FIM Speedway GP, fans can stay connected and follow Martin’s journey as he aims to overcome his current challenges and reclaim his place among the elite riders. Follow @tntsportsbikes on social media to stay updated with all the latest news and insights from the world of motorbikes.
