Reigning champion Jorge Martin made his much-anticipated comeback to the MotoGP scene, testing the Aprilia RS-GP25 at Misano on Wednesday for the first time since Qatar. Having missed nearly the entire season due to multiple injuries, except for one Grand Prix in Lusail, Martin completed 64 laps during the private test.
“It’s a relief and a joy to be back on my MotoGP bike after over three months,” Martin expressed. “It’s unfortunate that injuries kept me from competing this season, but the key thing is that I’m returning now.” Aprilia also announced that Martin will head to the Czech Grand Prix in Brno, pending a successful medical examination.
Martin has faced a series of difficult setbacks since joining Pramac Ducati’s Aprilia team, becoming the first independent rider to clinch the MotoGP title. He missed preseason tests due to wrist and hand injuries from a crash in Sepang and suffered further injuries in a Supermoto accident just before the Thai GP. His sole race appearance this season ended prematurely after a crash involving Fabio Di Giannantonio left both riders injured.
Last week, Martin tested an RSV4 superbike in Barcelona, a step that led to his recent RS-GP testing session under new MotoGP rules allowing injured riders to return gradually. “Today felt fantastic,” Martin said. “We made great progress throughout the day, and I’m eager to see what’s next. The goal is to compete in Brno, and I hope to train normally this week.”
Despite being withdrawn from the German Grand Prix due to a rib injury that is healing but not fully healed, Martin aims to race before the summer break. However, uncertainty looms over his 2026 plans as he remains in contract negotiations with Aprilia.
During Martin’s absence, his teammate Marco Bezzecchi has performed exceptionally well, clinching victory at Silverstone and securing a double podium at Assen.
Fan Take: Jorge Martin’s return is a crucial boost for MotoGP fans eager to see the reigning champion back in action. His comeback could reignite fierce competition in the championship and add even more excitement to the sport’s ongoing season.
