P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Jorge Martin’s signing to Aprilia was seen as a major moment for the brand in its aspirations to fight for the world championship. What followed was anything but, as injuries and a contract dispute fractured the relationship. Both parties come into 2026 showing unity, but can they really move forward?
Last year, Aprilia generated a lot of excitement when they signed Jorge Martin for the 2024 season after Ducati changed plans. Martin’s performance led to a world title win in 2024, solidifying his faith in Aprilia. The team’s positivity was evident in Barcelona’s first test, with Martin already being seen as a leader by the technical director. The unveiling of the 2025 bike with Martin as the world champion marked a new phase for Aprilia.
In 2026, Aprilia showcased a significant year of success, with multiple wins and podium finishes, achieving their best MotoGP results. Unfortunately, Martin’s year took a turn for the worse with several injuries, testing his relationship with the team. Despite rumors of a contract break, Aprilia stood firm and Martin eventually committed to staying for the second year. His comeback at Brno marked a new chapter in his journey with Aprilia.
