Aprilia is pushing for an exception to the rules so that Jorge Martín can test a MotoGP bike before making his race return after injuries in February 2025 sidelined him for the entire preseason. Beyond missing the chance to adapt to a new bike, last year’s champion has completed just over a dozen laps on a MotoGP machine since November 2024. This lack of track time is significant in terms of race pace and familiarity.
For this reason, the Noale-based manufacturer wants to give Martín a test on the RS-GP before putting him into a Grand Prix. However, at least one other manufacturer is opposing the move. LCR Honda team owner Lucio Cecchinello told GPOne.com that while he supports the idea, he believes rule changes should not be made mid-season.
“It makes perfect sense, and I agree. It was an unfortunate situation, and it’s unfair to make things even harder for the rider. The proposal deserves consideration, but at the same time, rules shouldn’t be changed month by month to accommodate specific needs. The concept is correct, but perhaps it would be more appropriate to discuss it for 2026,” said Cecchinello.
He pointed out the risk of setting a precedent, stating, “If we change the rules now, it could open the door to constant adjustments whenever a manufacturer – be it Honda, Yamaha, Ducati, or KTM – has a specific interest. Massimo [Rivola, Aprilia’s CEO] is right; this is something we missed. Let’s create a new rule, but for 2026.”
Martín's situation is not unique within the highly competitive environment of MotoGP. It raises questions about the fairness of opportunities available to injured riders compared to their healthier counterparts. In particular, Davide Tardozzi, Ducati's team manager, expressed reservations about the proposed rule change. He referred to previous scenarios where their own riders, like Enea Bastianini, were denied similar testing opportunities when sidelined.
“When our own factory rider Enea Bastianini was injured at the beginning of 2023, we were not given the opportunity to let him test,” Tardozzi said.
In the intricate world of MotoGP, which is filled with equally talented competitors, any gap in experience and adaptiveness can detract from a rider’s competitive edge. Martín will miss the first three races and possibly more as he continues his recovery.
As Aprilia continues to advocate for a change, an overarching concern remains regarding consistency across teams and maintaining a level playing field. Other manufacturers agree with the concept of easing testing restrictions for injured riders, recognizing that this could benefit many in the sport down the line, but also agree that such a change should not disrupt the existing season.
Amidst this backdrop, Aprilia’s push reflects a strong desire to enhance the safety and preparedness of riders who have faced unforeseen injuries. There’s an understanding that allowing Martínez time on the RS-GP could not only help him recover and re-acclimate but could also foster a spirit of fairness in the sport.
Yet, the combined voices from Honda and Ducati resonate deeply, emphasizing patience and the necessity of adhering to existing regulations for the time being. It’s indicative of a sport that remains fiercely competitive and intricate; both teams and riders are looking out for their best interests.
As the 2025 MotoGP season unfolds, the challenges are mounting for Martín, with further hurdles anticipated as he attempts to regain his form. While hope remains for those returning from injury, the industry seems aligned on one thing: any changes to the rules should be a topic of future discussions rather than hasty decisions made during the current season.
With a sense of camaraderie often portrayed in the MotoGP community, the reality reflects a different dynamic, akin to family feuds where allegiances are tested against the backdrop of a fiercely competitive atmosphere. While each team supports their respective riders, the stakes of success remain the driving force, and thus, the debate on rule changes continues.
The unfolding narrative around Jorge Martín and Aprilia may well set the tone for discussions about rider welfare, competition fairness, and the future structure of MotoGP rules moving forward into the season.
