Jorge Martin Joins Aprilia as Marc Marquez Takes Factory Ducati Seat for 2025
In a surprising turn of events, Aprilia has officially announced that Jorge Martin will replace the retiring Aleix Espargaro next season. This news follows reports that Marc Marquez has secured the factory Ducati seat for 2025, a spot initially anticipated for title leader Jorge Martin.
Martin’s move to Aprilia comes as part of a ‘multi-year’ contract, finalized swiftly after a consultation with Piaggio’s CEO, Michele Colaninno, on Sunday night. Massimo Rivola, CEO of Aprilia Racing, expressed his enthusiasm for Martin’s arrival, saying, “A path of unstoppable growth, Jorge is a building block to reach the goal we are all looking for with great hunger at Aprilia Racing. Thanks to Dr. Michele Colaninno for this opportunity, we spoke last night and without wasting any time we made the decision.”
This announcement capped off a dramatic weekend at Mugello for Martin, who has been with Pramac Racing since his MotoGP debut in 2021. Martin was initially expected to become Francesco Bagnaia’s teammate at Ducati but was ultimately edged out when Ducati made a decisive move to secure Marquez, fearing the loss of the eight-time world champion.
Martin, who has consistently stated he would not remain in a satellite role at Ducati, seized the opportunity to join Aprilia. It remains unclear if he was officially informed he wouldn’t receive the factory Ducati seat or if he chose to move on proactively.
The announcement was made through a brief social media video featuring both Martin and Espargaro, highlighting the last-minute nature of the agreement.
Currently leading the reigning double champion Bagnaia by 18 points, Martin could make history as the first satellite MotoGP champion. If he maintains his lead, he could bring the #1 plate to Aprilia next season.
Martin’s switch to Aprilia solidifies Marc Marquez’s return to full factory status with Ducati, after his impressive performances on a year-old Gresini GP23. Enea Bastianini is expected to move to GASGAS Tech3, and Pramac’s future remains uncertain, with Yamaha’s satellite offer now appearing more attractive.
Meanwhile, Maverick Vinales, Espargaro’s current teammate at Aprilia, has yet to finalize his plans for the 2025 season.
Source: Google
