Jorge Martin MotoGP Aprilia feedback highlighted optimism following his recent private test of the Aprilia RS-GP at Misano, marking his first return to MotoGP machinery in three months. The reigning world champion, recovering from serious injuries sustained in the Qatar Grand Prix, is aiming for a competitive return at the Czech Grand Prix in Brno next weekend.
Martin notes clear advancements in Aprilia’s RS-GP prototype
Aprilia team manager Paolo Bonora shared that Martin immediately recognised notable progress in the RS-GP’s performance during Wednesday’s test. After being sidelined due to fractured ribs and lung damage from his crash in Qatar, Martin’s experience on the latest version of the bike reflected substantial improvements, especially in terms of stability. Bonora confirmed Martin’s views aligned with feedback from team riders Marco Bezzecchi and Lorenzo Savadori, who had made significant developmental contributions during the season’s first half.
“Jorge said, ‘Oh, the bike has improved since the last time that I used it,’”
Bonora revealed.
“He feels that there is an improvement on the bike.”
Recovery progress and preparation for Brno race weekend
Martin is preparing for his first race back after a severe crash injured him in the Qatar GP, including the fractured ribs and lung trauma. Bonora described Martin’s upcoming season restart as a pre-season phase, highlighting the importance of measured pacing and safe recovery. Although Martin has not logged many laps on the RS-GP this year, the Misano test allowed him to regain confidence on the bike and reacquaint himself with its performance.
“This is a pre-season for him,”
Bonora explained.
“When you jump on the bike with 20 other riders, and 6000km in front of you, the first laps are a test.”
“We will take it in a calm way and will follow his recovery in a smart and calm way, to be sure he gets rhythm in the correct manner.”
The upcoming rounds, including the Czech Grand Prix in Brno, represent critical steps for Martin’s full return to competitive fitness and form. Bonora emphasized that every lap ridden at this stage serves a vital purpose in Martin’s comeback process, especially as he prepares to face riders who have already accumulated substantial race mileage this season.
New MotoGP regulations aid rider recovery and testing
Aprilia welcomed recent rule changes that permitted Martin to test MotoGP machinery outside of official race weekends, which was a move the team strongly supported. This allowance helped the team assess Martin’s physical readiness while still prioritising his recovery needs before a full race return.
“We are so happy because we were the first to push for this rule,”
Bonora stated.
“We are fully convinced by [having] the possibility of an injured guy testing a MotoGP bike.”
Testing the high-performance bikes with demanding braking systems requires riders to be in good health, and Aprilia views this adjustment as beneficial both for the team and the broader championship by providing clearer insight into a rider’s condition before competing.
“So it’s necessary to understand, before jumping into a high-level championship, to understand the health of the rider.”
Martin is expected to undergo a final medical assessment before the Brno GP to ensure he is fit to race. Team officials are confident he will be cleared, with Bonora affirming:
“If he is declared fit, we plan to have him during the weekend.”
Martin’s measured approach to returning amid strong competition
The Misano test was designed primarily to help Martin reacquire his rhythm and reacclimate to the nuances of MotoGP machinery following a limited number of laps completed this year. Bonora acknowledged the challenge Martin faces as he prepares to race against rivals who have already accrued significant track time.
“It wasn’t something special. The plan was to let him feel confident with the bike, and work on his movements, and remember how to use a MotoGP bike,”
Bonora remarked.
With the competition fiercely matched, each lap gains importance in rebuilding Martin’s speed and confidence. Meanwhile, teammate Marco Bezzecchi has stepped up during Martin’s absence, securing a win at Silverstone and consecutive podium finishes at Assen, fostering Aprilia’s rise in the championship standings.
Speculation surrounds Martin’s contract future with Aprilia
Alongside his recovery and return preparations, Jorge Martin remains involved in a high-profile contract dispute related to his intended exit from Aprilia after the 2025 season. Recent reports suggest he may instead complete both years of his current agreement, maintaining his position with Aprilia moving forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is MotoGP not so popular?
A. Unfortunately, people often prefer entertainment over sports, and MotoGP is attempting to profit from this preference. However, MotoGP lacks the personalities needed to make it exciting and dramatic.
Q. Did F1 buy MotoGP?
A. Once the deal is finalized, Liberty Media’s Formula One Group will include its subsidiaries: Formula 1, MotoGP, and Quint, along with some smaller investments.
Q. Which is the fastest? MotoGP is faster. To give you an example. At the 2023 Misano MotoGP, the fastest lap time was 1:31.791 by Francesco Bagnaia with a top speed of 303.3 Km/h (188.46 mph) by Dani Pedrosa.
A. In terms of speed, MotoGP bikes are generally faster than Superbikes. MotoGP machines are specifically designed for racing performance, which usually makes them quicker on the track.
Q. Has anyone won F1 and MotoGP?
A. John Surtees is well-known for being the only person to win World Championships on both motorcycles and in Formula 1 cars. He showed great skill and courage in both sports.
