Marco Bezzecchi
Massimo Rivola was elated after seeing Jorge Martin win the French Grand Prix just a year after he asked to leave the team.
A brilliant win for Jorge Martin at Le Mans, as he managed to get past his Aprilia teammate, Marco Bezzecchi, to win the French Grand Prix.
The Spanish rider capped off a brilliant weekend for himself, one that Martin started by winning the sprint on Saturday.
A thrilling win for Jorge Martin at Le Mans, as Marco Bezzecchi misses out to his teammate! But what stood out to you at the French Grand Prix?
Given the historical significance of Le Mans to Martin and Aprilia, this race win will be a huge boost to their confidence.
Just last year, Jorge Martin asked to leave Aprilia at Le Mans. But Massimo Rivola convinced him to stay, and he was proven right in his prediction.
READ MORE: Jorge Martin hailed by Neil Hodgson for his ‘ability’ that won him the Sprint at French Grand Prix
Massimo Rivola says Jorge Martin’s Aprilia exit request made 2026 French Grand Prix win ‘quite special’
Speaking right after the French Grand Prix, Aprilia director Massimo Rivola spoke about his happiness after seeing Jorge Martin win.
He looked back at last year, when Martin asked to leave Aprilia. Rivola told Martin that he could still win with Aprilia, and seeing his prediction come true has been very special.
“It shows we did a great job. I am super happy. I am thinking about last year at Le Mans, when Jorge wanted to leave. I said, ‘No, I think you can win with us!’ So winning here at Le Mans is quite special for me.
Martin is still set to leave Aprilia at the end of this year and join Yamaha for 2027. And while that is a blow for Aprilia, Rivola will be content with enjoying the win for now.
However, there will be a concern about the fact that both Martin and Bezzecchi are title rivals, with there now being just one point in the standings to separate them.
READ MORE: Jorge Martin comparing the 2026 Aprilia to his title-winning Ducati should worry Marco Bezzecchi
Marco Bezzecchi’s championship lead is down to just ONE point! Which Aprilia rider will score more points?
Massimo Rivola reiterates Aprilia will not back one rider over another in championship race
Speaking further after the race, Rivola gave a simple response when asked about concerns regarding Martin and Bezzecchi battling it out for the world championship.
“They are smart people, they are fighters. As long as they respect each other, I am fine.”
Rivola previously said Aprilia wouldn’t choose between Bezzecchi and Martin in a possible title race, and it appears his stance on the matter hasn’t changed.
Aprilia will have to endure a difficult title fight between their top riders if things carry on like this for the remainder of the season.
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