Jorge Martin makes shock switch to Aprilia for 2025
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MotoGP Championship Leader Jorge Martin to Join Aprilia in 2025
In a surprising turn of events, Aprilia announced on Monday that they have signed MotoGP championship leader Jorge Martin to a “multi-year contract” starting in 2025. The 26-year-old Spaniard, who is currently in his fourth season with Ducati's satellite team Pramac, will bring his talent and experience to Aprilia, aiming to elevate the team's performance in the coming years.
"Jorge is a building block to reach the goal we are all looking for with great hunger at Aprilia Racing," said Massimo Rivola, CEO of Aprilia Racing. "We spoke last night and without wasting any time we made the decision."
Martin had been widely considered a top contender to move up to the Ducati factory team next season, potentially replacing Enea Bastianini. However, the dynamics within the Ducati camp seemed to shift towards the end of last week. Six-time world champion Marc Marquez, who joined another Ducati satellite team, Gresini, earlier this year, made it clear that replacing Martin at Pramac was “not an option.”
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Speaking last Thursday ahead of the Italian Grand Prix, Marquez emphasized his preference for factory team offers, casting doubt on Martin's expected promotion within Ducati. This season, Martin has demonstrated remarkable consistency and skill, leading double defending world champion Francesco Bagnaia by 18 points in the standings. Marquez, despite four challenging seasons marked by severe crashes and his Honda team’s struggles, has made a strong comeback and currently sits third in the championship.
As the MotoGP signing season heats up, Ducati is expected to announce soon the rider who will join Bagnaia in the factory team. Martin's move to Aprilia signifies a significant shift in the paddock, as the team seeks to capitalize on his prowess and leadership to make a substantial impact in the championship.
The addition of Martin to Aprilia is seen as a strategic move to strengthen their competitive edge. With Martin's proven track record and the hunger for success shared by both parties, this partnership could herald a new era for Aprilia Racing. As the 2024 season progresses, all eyes will be on how Martin adapts to his new team and what this collaboration will bring to the ever-evolving landscape of MotoGP.