Jorge Martin, riding for Aprilia Racing, will miss the pre-season MotoGP test scheduled next week at Sepang due to additional surgery on his shoulder injury. This injury occurred during a crash at the Japanese Grand Prix last October, which also involved his teammate Marco Bezzecchi. The surgery delays Martin’s recovery, affecting his preparation for the upcoming season.
Details of Martin’s Surgery and Recovery Process
Aprilia revealed that Martin underwent two revision surgeries in mid-December, addressing issues with his left scaphoid and right clavicle. The team emphasized that this step is necessary to ensure Martin achieves a full recovery and is in optimal physical condition before the season begins. Despite missing the test, Martin plans to be in Malaysia to support the team and monitor the development of the RS-GP26 race bike.
Contrasting Statements from Martin on His Conditioning
This announcement contrasts sharply with Martin’s comments at last week’s team launch, where he expressed confidence about his fitness. Martin stated,
“I’m feeling good, and really happy to be here,”
and acknowledged significant work over the winter to regain full fitness. He further noted,
“I’m still working for sure, because after what happened last winter it’s difficult to be at 100% full fitness. I’m working on that, but I’m pretty sure I’ll be ready for the start of the season.”
Impact on Relationship Between Martin and Aprilia Racing
This development comes at a sensitive time, marking the second consecutive season Martin will miss a pre-season test. The late disclosure of the additional surgery that rules him out at Sepang adds strain to their partnership. The tension is underscored by their tumultuous 2025 season, when Martin sought to exit his contract with Aprilia amid injury struggles to join Honda’s 2026 project. Although both Martin and Aprilia’s team principal Massimo Rivola have recently expressed that past issues were resolved, this setback clouds the outlook for their collaboration as 2024 progresses.
Plans for Martin’s Return and Team Adjustments
To cover for Martin’s absence at the Sepang test, Aprilia will rely on their test rider and regular substitute, Lorenzo Savadori. Meanwhile, Martin is aiming to make his MotoGP return at the final pre-season test in Buriram later in February, only days before the first race of the new season. Given these circumstances and the history between rider and team, Martin’s ongoing recovery challenges could signal an eventual parting of ways with Aprilia by 2027, when his contract is up.
