It's now official: Aprilia has just taken a position on the Jorge Martin affair, via a press conference organized by team principal Massimo Rivola. The Italian is clear: while he's still motivated by the desire to talk with his rider, yesterday's statement from the "Martinator"'s agent, Albert Valera, clearly didn't reassure him. And finally, according to the Noale-based firm, Martin might not be all that free for the 2026 season.
Rivola's shock statement comes directly after comments by Carmelo Ezpeleta, who stated this earlier today: "We will not allow anyone to participate in the championship without an agreement or a court decision.". A shocking sentence which considerably darkens the plans of the world champion MotoGP 2024, but that's not all. Massimo Rivola, who had campaigned in favor of his rider at the beginning of his convalescence, revealed Aprilia's plan...
…And it stings. "Clearly, he won't be free in 2026. And if we have to go to court, we'll go, and... how can I say... we're pretty relaxed on that point." he stated. However, he did reiterate that the priority was to keep Martin on the team. If that is not possible, he wants to consider discussion, with the aim of finding a fair agreement for both parties. And finally, if the two entities cannot find common ground, Rivola is ready to defend Aprilia's interests in court.
Aprilia are adamant that Jorge Martin is staying 🤝
Massimo Rivola weighed in on the latest swirl of rumors 👀#MotoGP | #DutchGP pic.twitter.com/gLvK2zI8v8
— TNT Sports Bikes (@bikesontnt) June 29, 2025
The situation is all the more tense as Martin will soon be available again. « If he is physically ready, we would like to do a test at Misano on July 9th.If it goes well, we will discuss a Grand Prix to race again. I think Brno could be a good option, but we have to see how it goes. Competing in a GP before the summer break could do him some good mentally, while also getting him back into the rhythm physically." he concluded.
Jorge Martin must be very careful, because a long legal battle could hinder his career in all respects: firstly, according to Ezpeleta, he would have to wait for the courts to deliver their verdict. This can be very long, and time is precious for young pilots whose careers are relatively short. Second, it could further damage his reputation, and make teams who want to sign him hesitate.
What do you think of Massimo Rivola's comments? Tell us in the comments!
