MotoGP: Martin to Replace Espargaro at Aprilia in 2025, Marquez Eyes Ducati Factory Seat

Under a multi-year contract, Jorge Martin will compete for Aprilia in the 2025 MotoGP season. This news coincides with Marc Marquez's expected promotion to Ducati's factory squad. Initially, Martin was rumoured to join Francesco Bagnaia at Ducati. However, Ducati was caught off guard when Marquez declined a switch from Gresini to Pramac, leading them to choose Marquez to replace Enea Bastianini. Martin determined not to remain a satellite rider, found a new opportunity with Aprilia. The announcement, shared via a brief social media video featuring Espargaro, suggests the deal was finalized at the last minute. Currently leading the championship by 18 points over former double champion Bagnaia, Martin could make history as the first satellite MotoGP champion and bring the top title to Aprilia next season.

Following the retirement of three-time Grand Prix winner Aleix Espargaro at the end of this year, Martin will step into his role at the Noale-based manufacturer in 2025.

Also Read: MotoGP: Aleix Espargaro Reportedly to Become Honda Test Rider in 2025

Massimo Rivola, Aprilia Racing CEO: “A path of unstoppable growth, Jorge is a building block to reach the goal we are all looking for with great hunger at Aprilia Racing. Thanks to Dr Michele Colaninno for this opportunity, we spoke last night and without wasting any time we made the decision.”

MotoGP: Marc Marquez to Factory Ducati?

Ducati might be in for a big change, as rumours suggest they're considering giving Marc Marquez an official bike for the 2025 season, which would be quite unexpected. According to the Italian press, before the Italian MotoGP last weekend, it was thought that Martin would win the factory seat instead of Marquez.

During the Italian Grand Prix, Marquez mentioned to the media that Pramac wasn't his preferred choice. Reports also noted that Ducati was concerned when Marquez indicated he wouldn't join the Ducati Satellite team. Now, it seems Ducati might be reconsidering and could announce Marquez as Bagnaia's teammate for 2025, with Enea Bastianini leaving Ducati.

Currently, Marquez is 35 points behind Martin in the standings, and while he's riding a bike that's generally considered inferior to Martin's Ducati GP24.