Jorge Martin explains why it’s still ‘too early’ to sign a new Aprilia contract for 2027

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The MotoGP rider market is set to be chaotic in 2026 as teams and riders scramble over contracts, and Jorge Martin could be at the centre of it.

The Spaniard is one of several riders out of contract come 2027, with his deal at Aprilia expiring at the end of the season. So far, it has not been a smooth ride for Martin at the Noale outfit.

Struggling with numerous injuries throughout 2025, Martin only took part in eight race weekends. 2026 presents a fresh start for the 27-year-old, and he could play a huge role in activating the MotoGP rider market.

Martin had tried to join Honda for 2026 after he activated an exit clause in his Aprilia contract. He was unsatisfied with the state of the RS-GP and where the manufacturer’s project was heading.

Dorna eventually intervened in Martin’s dispute and prevented him from breaking his contract. Aprilia have since resolved the matter with the 2024 champion and their relationship appears harmonious, but there are still doubts about his future with the team.

Jorge Martin is more worried about returning to full fitness than signing a new contract with Aprilia

Aprilia’s CEO, Massimo Rivola, recently stated that he planned to renew Marco Bezzecchi’s contract as soon as possible. In Martin’s absence, the Italian has guided the team to three wins and helped develop the bike into a strong contender at the front.

Rivola also emphasised that they would give Martin time to return to full fitness, rather than rushing into a decision for their 2027 line-up. The Spaniard is in the same boat.

Speaking to GPOne, Martin explained that it was a ‘bit early’ to think about signing a new contract with Aprilia. He intends to focus on his recovery before deciding on his future.

When asked if discussions were ongoing for 2027, he replied: “No, no, not yet, we haven’t started, but sure. We’ll definitely be talking about this soon.

“I still have to… I have to catch up. I’m focused on that, on doing a good job with precision and then starting the season at full throttle, then we’ll see what happens in ‘27, but for me it’s still a bit early for me.”

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

Could Jorge Martin fight for the MotoGP title in 2026?

The Spaniard’s title defence did not go the way he would have hoped in 2025 as he lost the No.1 plate for 2026. In fact, Martin has officially had the worst MotoGP title defence in the sport’s history, although that is largely down to his injuries.

Martin was happy for Marc Marquez after he watched him win the title this season. The Ducati rider marked an incredible recovery from several years of injuries and setbacks, and Martin will be looking to bounce back similarly in 2026.

Rivola is backing Aprilia to be title contenders next season, with Bezzecchi showing brilliant signs of progression in 2025 and Martin still to return from injury.

The potential of the RS-GP is certainly high, and the Spaniard could have what he needs to fight for a title again. The question is whether he can stay on the bike, having had multiple crashes on it this year.