Jorge Martin’s camp are already discussing drastic action to get out of Aprilia contract

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Jorge Martin’s contract dispute with Aprilia could end up going to court. But both parties may privately want to avoid that outcome.

The two sides are confident in their positions. Martin’s legal team say he’s free to leave after triggering his release clause.

On the other hand, Aprilia fully expect a judge to rule in their favour if it comes to it. They think Martin’s clause, based on championship position, is invalid because he’s missed all but one race through injury.

The losing side would no doubt face a major PR hit, and significant legal costs are guaranteed regardless. In reality, Martin’s relationship with Aprilia may already have been severed, forcing the team to look elsewhere for 2026.

Jorge Martin and Aprilia have now engaged in compensation talks

According to Motorsport.com, Martin’s camp are already speaking to Aprilia about a compensation package. This indicates a willingness to settle the matter out of court, provided Massimo Rivola’s squad receive enough money.

At this stage, they’re ‘still far apart’ in figures. Aprilia are taking a ‘slow’ and ‘calculated’ approach, aware that this saga has caused a logjam in the MotoGP rider market regardless.

• READ MORE: Everything to know about Jorge Martin from net worth to girlfriend

By contrast, Martin wants to finalise his Honda deal urgently. He may be worried that the Japanese manufacturer will walk away eventually, effectively leaving him stranded.

The 27-year-old remains out injured, with Aprilia confirming that Martin will miss the German GP. That gives him just one chance to return before the summer break.

Honda may be forced to change their minds about Jorge Martin

Speaking during the Assen weekend, Massimo Rivola indicated that Aprilia wouldn’t keep Martin if he truly wanted to leave. So even as they dig in, they may be targeting remuneration rather than a reconciliation.

Swift progress looks unlikely, with the situation largely unchanged in the last few months. To that end, Martin is pushing Honda to make a formal offer to Aprilia.

The Japanese manufacturer have been reluctant to escalate their interest while the Spaniard is contracted to another team. But it could be one way to break the impasse.

Luca Marini will nervously be awaiting developments. As he approaches the end of his contract, his HRC seat is clearly under threat.