Ducati has committed to fully supporting Jorge Martin’s bid for the MotoGP championship this season, even as the rider prepares to join rival manufacturer Aprilia in 2025.
Martin, who rides for Pramac Ducati, signed with Aprilia after Ducati decided to favor Marc Marquez for their factory team. This means that Martin could potentially secure the championship title this season before moving to Aprilia next year.
Ducati’s sporting director, Mauro Grassilli, confirmed their dedication to supporting Martin despite the future change: “No doubt. We believe Jorge has a real chance to win the title. Ducati will support him fully. Gigi Dall’Igna would also affirm this. Our commitment to Pramac and Martin remains strong, respecting all contracts and professional relationships.”
Martin recently lost his lead in the MotoGP standings after the Sachsenring race and is currently in second place, 10 points behind the reigning champion, Pecco Bagnaia. Ducati recognizes that the championship is within their grasp this year, whether through Bagnaia, Martin, or Marquez.
Looking ahead to next season, Ducati will see Marquez join Bagnaia in the factory team, while Martin will depart. Grassilli acknowledged the challenge of parting ways with key riders like Martin, Enea Bastianini, and Marco Bezzecchi: “It’s tough to put into words. Beyond the professional relationships, there are personal and human aspects involved. Unfortunately, we will lose all three names next year. We only had one spot available, which left two riders disappointed, including Jorge. However, Martin will continue to receive our utmost support.”
Grassilli also addressed the impact of the 2023 season on these decisions, clarifying that Bastianini’s misfortunes had no effect on the team’s choices. Ducati made a concerted effort to retain Martin and Pramac but ultimately could not secure their services.
Marco Bezzecchi, who will join Martin at Aprilia, was another loss for Ducati. Grassilli expressed regret over Bezzecchi’s departure: “We understand Marco’s decision. He sought certain assurances that we were unable to provide in time, which led to his decision to leave.”
Despite these changes, Ducati remains focused on supporting their current riders and securing the championship title this season.
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