The 2024 MotoGP champion Jorge Martin may trigger a major shake-up in the 2026 rider market as tensions grow over a controversial exit clause in his Aprilia contract.
Martin, sidelined since Qatar due to rib injuries, reportedly visited Le Mans to meet with Aprilia management regarding a clause that allows him to exit early if not placed near the top of the championship standings by the French GP. Despite missing races due to injury, the clause has not yet been annulled—prompting Martin to request an extension, which may have soured relations with Aprilia.
Should the Martin-Aprilia partnership collapse, several teams are ready to pounce. Here are the most realistic options:
1. Honda HRC (Factory Team)
- Current status: One confirmed seat with Joan Mir.
- Vacant seat: Being eyed by Johann Zarco, Luca Marini, and Pedro Acosta.
- Why it fits: Martin’s top choice. Factory team status, plus close friend Aleix Espargaro is now Honda’s test rider.
- Challenge: Intense competition for the ride.
2. Pramac Racing (Yamaha Partnership)
- Current status: Splitting from Ducati to partner with Yamaha in 2025.
- Vacant seat: Jack Miller’s deal ends in 2025.
- Why it fits: Familiar team for Martin; Yamaha will offer factory support.
- Challenge: Martin left Ducati over being passed for the factory ride; returning to a satellite Yamaha squad may feel like a step back.
3. Pertamina Enduro VR46 (Ducati Satellite Team)
- Vacant seat: Franco Morbidelli only signed through 2025.
- Why it fits: Martin dominated with Ducati machinery.
- Challenge: Returning to a satellite Ducati seat—especially after leaving over factory rejection—would be a major reversal, unless Ducati offers a GP25 upgrade.
4. LCR Honda (Satellite, Factory-Supported)
- Vacant seat: Dependent on Zarco and Marini negotiations; Somkiat Chantra also has an option.
- Why it fits: Factory support and the RC213V is showing signs of resurgence.
- Challenge: Not a true factory ride and financially a downgrade from Aprilia.
If Martin Leaves Aprilia…
The factory Aprilia seat next to Marco Bezzecchi becomes one of the hottest properties on the grid. Likely contenders include:
- Luca Marini – Technically astute and Italian, could form an all-Italian line-up.
- Franco Morbidelli – Experienced, resurgent in 2025.
- Jack Miller – A proven race winner with experience across multiple manufacturers.
- Johann Zarco – Committed to Honda, but could be tempted if passed over.
- Ai Ogura – Aprilia’s rising Trackhouse rookie might be promoted internally.
Martin’s future now hinges on Aprilia’s response to his request—and whether he’s willing to walk away from a factory ride in hopes of finding a better long-term fit.
