Jorge Martinez, also known as ‘Aspar’, has addressed the growing speculation around a CFMoto MotoGP entry plan, emphasizing that any attempt to join the top-tier motorcycle racing series for the 2027 rules overhaul would be ill-advised. Speaking about CFMoto’s ambitions, Martinez cautioned that accelerating efforts to join the MotoGP grid could be impractical, bringing increased attention to the Chinese manufacturer’s future in premier motorcycling.
Strong Presence in Junior Categories Boosts CFMoto’s Reputation
Currently, the Aspar team operates under CFMoto branding within the Moto2 and Moto3 categories, where it enhances CFMoto’s profile on the global championship stage. In Moto3, the team races KTM machinery branded as CFMoto, achieving notable success by winning the 2024 world championship with rider David Alonso. Looking ahead, the team is positioned as a frontrunner for future championships, particularly with promising talent Maximo Quiles expected to compete in 2026.
Obstacles and Realities of Entering MotoGP by 2027
CFMoto’s possible ascent to MotoGP as a full team has drawn interest for several seasons, with whispers of a future World Superbike entry also circulating. Yet, as Jorge Martinez explained,
“The idea is to get to MotoGP,”
— Jorge Martinez ‘Aspar’, Motosan. Despite these ambitions, he dismissed the feasibility of entering by 2027 without a measured approach, stating,
Building an infrastructure in such a short time would be madness. It could happen in the future, but without haste.
— Jorge Martinez ‘Aspar’, Motosan.
The current structure of MotoGP complicates new team entries further. The series has imposed a cap of 22 bikes, requiring any prospective manufacturers to either join forces with existing teams or acquire grid slots already in use. Reports from GPOne late last year suggested CFMoto might consider taking over KTM’s MotoGP project, as KTM management indicated active investment discussions during the winter, targeting a deal before the end of the year.
Potential Models for CFMoto’s MotoGP Entry
Industry speculation includes the prospect of CFMoto’s MotoGP program being managed by Aspar’s team, though this would necessitate acquisition of pre-existing grid slots. The Aspar squad brings extensive MotoGP experience, with historical campaigns between 2009 and 2010 using Ducati bikes, followed by runs with Aprilia CRT machinery in 2012 and 2013. The transition to the Open class in 2014 saw Nicky Hayden and Hiroshi Aoyama riding for the team, with a continued presence until 2018 using a variety of equipment, including older Ducati motorcycles.
Looking Forward: Significance of CFMoto’s MotoGP Goals
CFMoto’s path toward MotoGP represents a significant ambition for the brand and signals a continued push to raise its status in international racing. The careful strategy outlined by Jorge Martinez and the competitive pedigree shown in Moto2 and Moto3 suggest that, while a CFMoto MotoGP entry is not imminent for the 2027 season, the groundwork is being laid for a substantive effort in the future. The involvement of major names like David Alonso and Maximo Quiles, as well as connections to key events and organizations like World Superbike and KTM, reinforce CFMoto’s growing presence within global motorsports.
