Jorge Martin eyes Thailand test as Aprilia remains optimistic

Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola provides an update on Jorge Martin’s recovery and Marco Bezzecchi’s strong adaptation ahead of the 2025 season.

A car exits the main entrance of Aurelius Hospital in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, where Aprilia Racing's Spanish rider Jorge Martin was admitted after sustaining injuries on the first day of the 2025 MotoGP pre-season test in Sepang, on February 5, 2025. Photo by Mohd Rasfan/AFP

By Hayu Andini and Randy Ahmad

Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola has offered new details on Jorge Martin’s recovery following his injury at the Sepang test. The reigning world champion suffered injuries to his right hand and left foot during the opening day of testing, raising concerns about his readiness for the upcoming season. However, Rivola remains confident that Martin will be back in action soon and is expected to participate in the Thailand test.

“He is still a little injured, unfortunately,” Rivola told Moto.it. “Let’s say the right hand-left foot combination for a biker is the worst, but we remain optimistic because he is a beast, a warrior. He will come to Thailand for a test, even if it will be a race weekend.”

Despite the setback, Aprilia believes Martin will regain full fitness in time for the season’s opening races. Rivola expressed confidence in the Spanish rider’s resilience, emphasizing that his return will be crucial for the team’s competitive ambitions.

Marco Bezzecchi impresses in winter testing

While Martin recovers, Marco Bezzecchi has been making waves with his adaptation to the RS-GP. The Italian rider, who joined Aprilia this season, has demonstrated strong form in pre-season testing, giving the team confidence in his ability to challenge at the top.

“Marco found a bike that he liked straight away,” Rivola said. “What’s interesting is that almost everything he tried in terms of development made him go faster. That’s a good sign.”

Bezzecchi’s smooth transition to the Aprilia machine has been a key talking point in the paddock. His performance in winter testing suggests that he could be a serious contender in the 2025 MotoGP season. Rivola also highlighted the synergy between Martin and Bezzecchi, noting that the team is fostering a strong working relationship between the two riders.

“Jorge and Bez understand each other,” Rivola added. “At the beginning, we don’t say anything to the riders because we want to hear their impressions, but given the situation, we told Jorge everything. We can’t wait for him to be back at 100%.”

Aprilia sets high expectations for 2025

With Jorge Martin on the road to recovery and Marco Bezzecchi already demonstrating competitive pace, Aprilia heads into the 2025 season with high expectations. The team is determined to position itself as a top contender, with Rivola and his staff working to provide both riders with the best conditions to challenge for race wins and the championship.

If Martin can regain his peak form quickly and Bezzecchi can translate his testing performances into race results, Aprilia could emerge as a serious threat to the established frontrunners. The Italian manufacturer is eager to play a significant role in the title fight, making it one of the teams to watch closely this season.

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