Marc Marquez stated at the FIM Awards that he hopes his return to the top will inspire people to keep pushing forward. One of those motivated by his achievement is former MotoGP champion Jorge Martin.
Martin said Marquez’s journey is a strong example of a successful comeback, though he does not compare himself directly to Marquez. He believes he can also return to his best level.
After becoming the first MotoGP-era champion from a non-factory team, Martin secured factory status by moving from Pramac to Aprilia. However, his title defence fell apart early due to multiple pre-season injuries. His situation worsened with eleven rib fractures and lung complications in Qatar, followed by a displaced collarbone after a collision with team-mate Marco Bezzecchi in Japan.
Bezzecchi went on to deliver Aprilia’s strongest season, achieving three grand prix wins, three Sprint victories, third in the riders’ standings and second in the constructors’. Martin, meanwhile, managed a best finish of fourth during a season heavily disrupted by injuries.
Martin said he is pleased for Aprilia and Bezzecchi but emphasised that he is a different type of rider who needs time to adapt. He believes both he and the bike have strong potential and that progress will come once everything aligns.
He added that his crash in Japan was unfortunate because he had felt increasingly confident, especially after a positive Misano test. His focus now is on moving past the latest setback and continuing his build-up.
Despite criticism for attempting to activate a release clause earlier in the year, Martin insists that issue is settled and appreciates Aprilia’s understanding of his situation. He says he is committed to the team and will stand by his decisions until the end.
Martin followed the team’s recommendation to pit earlier during the Valencia finale and finished the post-race test 16th fastest with a gap of +0.621.
