Jorge Martin has made a bold statement for the 2025 MotoGP season, unveiling the #1 plate on his Aprilia bike during the team’s Milan launch event on Thursday. This move, while expected by some, signals a high-risk gamble for the Spanish rider as he embarks on a new chapter with Aprilia after a tumultuous departure from Ducati.
Martin had teased the decision all winter, with hints and subtle clues posted on his social media. Although Aprilia played a playful game by displaying his traditional #89 on the backdrop, the eventual reveal of the #1 plate was no surprise. However, the choice has reignited a debate that arises every year: Should the reigning world champion run the iconic #1, or stick with their career number?
Some riders, like Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez, have resisted the #1 plate throughout their careers, preferring to build a brand identity with their personal numbers. For many fans, the number itself becomes a symbol, an emblem of their favourite athlete’s legacy. Yet, history in MotoGP suggests that running #1 does not always guarantee success. Notable riders such as Nicky Hayden (2007), Casey Stoner (2008), and Jorge Lorenzo (2011) all struggled after adopting the #1 plate, with none managing to defend their titles successfully in their respective seasons.
However, there is an exception: Francesco Bagnaia. The Italian managed to defend his MotoGP crown in 2023 while sporting the #1 plate, making him the first rider in recent history to successfully defend the title with that number. Prior to Bagnaia, Mick Doohan (1998) was the last to do so.
For Martin, the decision to display #1 isn’t just a matter of tradition or honour; it reflects his drive and determination. Speaking at the launch, Martin explained: “I didn’t have any doubts about putting the number one on. I’ve been fighting for this all my life, and finally achieving the world championship in MotoGP and being able to put this number on this amazing Aprilia is super nice.”
There is an underlying message in Martin’s words, however. As much as the #1 plate represents his triumph, it also signifies his confidence in the Aprilia brand. Aprilia has been steadily improving over the years, with recent performances showing potential. Yet, the team’s progress hit a snag in 2024, and the pressure is now on for Martin to lead the charge. In his view, the #1 plate serves as a rallying cry for the team to match his personal ambition.
Indeed, Martin’s switch to Aprilia came after Ducati failed to offer him the factory seat he desired, instead choosing to sign Marc Marquez. The decision to leave Ducati, despite its championship-winning bike, was a tough one, but Martin is determined to prove his worth with Aprilia. While Ducati might be feeling the sting of his departure, the move also serves as a challenge to his former team. After all, should Martin succeed in 2025, it will be a pointed blow to Ducati’s management.
Yet, this move is not without its risks. By adopting the #1 plate, Martin places immense pressure on himself to deliver results. His confidence in Aprilia’s potential must translate into tangible success on the track. While he has downplayed suggestions of a title fight in 2025, the expectation surrounding the #1 plate will only intensify as the season progresses.
If Martin can defy the odds and take the 2025 championship, it would cement his legacy as one of MotoGP’s boldest and most ambitious riders. But if he falls short, Ducati’s decision to place its faith in Marquez could be vindicated, and Martin’s gamble may prove to be a costly one.
In the high-stakes world of MotoGP, Martin’s choice is not just about the number on his bike—it’s about proving to both Aprilia and Ducati that he made the right move for his future. As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on him to see if this risky game pays off.
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