Jorge Martin has signaled his intention to leave Aprilia at the end of the current MotoGP season, igniting speculation and possibilities within the 2026 rider market. While his contract with Aprilia includes a break clause, Martin has clarified he is still open to giving the team a “second chance” once he returns from injury to prove the competitiveness of their bike.
Martin’s 2025 campaign has been off to a slow start due to injuries sustained in Qatar – the only Sunday race he’s competed in this year – which derailed his title defense after his championship-winning season on a Ducati with Pramac.
If Martin’s relationship with Aprilia proves beyond repair, several teams are preparing for potential changes in 2026:
Honda HRC:
Martin’s top preference appears to be Honda’s factory team. With a vacancy alongside Joan Mir, and close friend Aleix Espargaro now serving as Honda’s test rider, the move seems plausible. However, Johann Zarco and Luca Marini are also in talks for the seat, while Pedro Acosta and Toprak Razgatlioglu remain outside contenders. Honda has expressed interest in any top rider willing to make the switch.
Pramac Yamaha:
Returning to Pramac, now partnered with Yamaha, is another potential option. Jack Miller’s contract only runs through 2025, and while he’s been strong—recently placing P7 at Silverstone—Pramac might still offer room if Miguel Oliveira’s two-year deal is reconsidered. Toprak Razgatlioglu is also in the Yamaha frame.
VR46 Ducati:
If Martin misses the Ducati Desmosedici that took him to 32 podiums and 8 wins, a seat at VR46 could be available if Franco Morbidelli exits after 2025. Still, it would be a significant reversal for Martin to accept a satellite-spec GP24 or even a potential GP25, after having left Ducati due to being passed over for the factory seat.
LCR Honda:
LCR also presents an alternative Honda-backed option, especially if Zarco departs to join HRC and Marini re-signs. Rookie Somkiat Chantra has an option for 2026, but the team may look for a proven race winner like Martin if the chance arises.
Should Martin leave Aprilia, it would open up a highly sought-after factory seat next to Marco Bezzecchi. Candidates could include:
- Luca Marini – a return to Aprilia for an all-Italian line-up.
- Franco Morbidelli – experienced and already a podium finisher in 2025.
- Jack Miller – brings multi-manufacturer insight and recent form.
- Johann Zarco – if not retained by Honda, could be a viable veteran option.
- Ai Ogura – Aprilia’s top internal candidate, especially with Trackhouse experience.
- Enea Bastianini – if he opts to exit Tech3 KTM.
The rider market remains fluid, but Martin’s potential exit could be the spark that redefines the 2026 grid.
