Marco Bezzecchi
Jorge Martin is under a little pressure heading into the 2026 MotoGP season. His contract expires soon, and he has to prove to Aprilia that he deserves a seat with them.
He hasn’t scored a podium for the Noale-based manufacturer yet, and has spent the majority of his time with them hampered by injury. The MotoGP rider market beckons.
When Aprilia signed him in 2024, the expectation was that he would go on to lead the team’s efforts, but instead, teammate Marco Bezzecchi has stepped up far more impressively.
Now it leaves Martin in the more vulnerable position, looking to the future. He has to contribute something to their programme this year.
Finish the sentence: Aprilia will win ___ Grands Prix in 2026
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Martin won’t return for pre-season testing until he’s 100% fit, which sounds unlikely at this stage. Already, he’s on the back foot after two winter surgeries.
Fans are gutted for Martin’s ‘heart-wrenching’ setback, and were looking forward to seeing him back at his best in 2026. Now, it looks as though they might have to wait a little longer.
READ MORE: Jorge Martin sets his stance on joining a satellite team after ‘disastrous’ first year at Aprilia
Jorge Martin must use his ‘extraordinary’ riding talents to save his Aprilia seat for 2027
Pramac are making Martin a real offer, just over a year on from leaving them, despite winning a world championship with them.
That was when they had a Ducati bike, but now they’re with Yamaha. It would be a surprise to see him go back there.
Bezzecchi expects to share number one status with Martin, despite the clear gap in their performances last year.
According to Mowmag, it’s now Aprilia who have the upper hand in contract negotiations, leaving Martin to use his ‘extraordinary’ talents to save his seat.
The Spaniard has been linked with Honda in the past, and they’re likely to be active in looking for new riders over the next few months.
Now it all depends as to whether Martin feels as though he needs a fresh start. Would moving to a new manufacturer give him a better chance to win?
READ MORE: Jorge Martin makes ‘important’ statement about his Aprilia future after unveiling their 2026 bike
Why there is still some hope for Jorge Martin at Aprilia in 2026
Although Ducati remain the favourites to take both titles in 2026, this year, their closest challenger is expected to be Aprilia.
They ended 2025 stronger than anyone else, and with some strong development over the winter, will be in contention for victories at the very least.
Now it depends on whether Bezzecchi is ready to compete with Marc Marquez, and if Francesco Bagnaia or Martin can get involved too.
If either can, the title fight will be blown wide open. Martin is nearly at 100% fitness again, and he’s going to need to be for a fight of this nature.
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