Adjustments Aprilia must implement for Jorge Martin to create significant MotoGP records

Securing a MotoGP championship is an achievement, yet Jorge Martin aims to do so after transitioning to a new team in 2025.

Jorge Martin's transition from Pramac Ducati to Aprilia offers the Spanish racer an uncommon chance to secure MotoGP championships with varied manufacturers.

Nonetheless, to achieve this, Aprilia, which secured the third spot in this year's constructors' rankings, must enhance its MotoGP offering.

"Jordan Moreland, the host of the Crash MotoGP Podcast, confirmed that it's a step back due to Ducati's dominance. However, during Martin's initial trial in Barcelona, despite not having direct quotes from him, it appeared they were quite satisfied overall."

"The focus is truly on advancing to the next level for Aprilia, as that's been their position for the past season and a half. There's been a significant difference in performance when comparing them with Ducati."

Crash.net's MotoGP chief, Peter McLaren, highlighted consistency as a key element in Martin's 2025 championship success, a trait Martin mastered in 2024, unlike Aprilia.

McLaren mentioned, "I believe it was [Massimo] Rivola who made the comment; they have to improve their overall performance, right?"

This year, they stood out as the sole manufacturer to outperform Ducati, marking a significant accomplishment. However, they concurrently fell back in the rankings, ending up behind KTM in the constructors’ standings.

"Aprilia's performance is a mixed bag, but they must improve on their average days to be contenders for the championship."

Securing the championship would position Martin as just the third competitor ever to secure the top-tier Grand Prix championship in consecutive years with different manufacturers, following in the footsteps of Valentino Rossi (2003–04) and Eddie Lawson (1988–89).

"Securing that achievement would be a huge deal for Martin," McLaren described.

"It appears that only Valentino Rossi and Eddie Lawson have achieved consecutive championships with different manufacturers, offering him an opportunity to significantly etch his name in history."

"Undoubtedly, he faces a significant challenge in accomplishing that, but the initial step is to achieve consistency."

"We witnessed Maverick's remarkable performances at COTA, where he secured victories, achieving an impressive double win that appeared to baffle even him regarding his exceptional success at that circuit, and yet, he never returned to the podium following those triumphs. It all boils down to consistency."

"Consistency may not be the most exciting term or concept, but it truly is the key to securing championships, especially in a season that spans over 40 races. This was clearly demonstrated this year when Martin, despite winning fewer Grand Prix races than Bagnaia, managed to come out on top."

A crucial element in attaining greater consistency will involve making more effective use of the 2024-spec Michelin rear tire, an aspect of the past season that only Ducati managed to fully capitalize on.

"Lewis Duncan, a journalist at Crash.net, pointed out that Aprilia's main focus with Martin […] should be to understand the ways in which the 2024 Ducati managed to optimize the performance of the 2024 Michelin rear tyre."

"The critical point for Aprilia, according to conversations with KTM and Aprilia riders, revolves around a bit of uncertainty. They believe that the issues they encountered this season were not present last season. As a result, it seems there's only one place to point the finger for this year's challenges—the introduction of the new rear tyre.

"The issue isn't with the quality of the rear tire. Rather, the latest rear tire offers significantly increased grip, a feature that only Ducati managed to fully exploit."

"After they uncovered its possibilities, no one else managed to do so."

It's understood that KTM faced significant issues with vibrations, which were probably connected to the rear tire, and Honda experienced similar troubles. Ducati also encountered this at the start, though there's little recollection of Aprilia riders reporting vibration problems. However, Aprilia had its own set of challenges, including problems with grip, traction, and rapid wear and tear during Grand Prix races.

The ability to quickly accelerate was present, and their speed in short races was satisfactory, but when it came to longer races, they faced difficulties.

Hearing Aleix Espargaro's comments in Malaysia, it was clear he was clueless. Aprilia's expectation from Martin, at the bare minimum, revolves around this notion — if they're banking on the 2024 rear tyre being a game-changer, then they have someone familiar with its effectiveness on a motorcycle that capitalized on it.

Nonetheless, although it's apparent what steps Aprilia must take leading up to the 2025 Thai Grand Prix in early March, accomplishing these will be made difficult due to staff changes at Noale during the winter season.

Marco Bezzecchi and Martin are not the only newcomers at the factory; Fabiano Sterlacchini has also joined as the new technical director, taking over from the outgoing Romano Albesiano.

Duncan stated, "Aprilia must undertake this with a fresh roster of riders and a new technical head, as Fabiano Sterlacchini has stepped in to fill the position previously held by [Romano] Albesiano."

"Sterlacchini parted ways with the KTM project in June, leaving behind a motorcycle [KTM RC16] that he struggled to optimize, particularly in maximizing the performance of the rear tire. They're facing a significant off-season, and the initial tests are poised to be quite revealing."

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Giacomo Agostini offers his perspective on the competition between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi

"Their ages were different…"

Giacomo Agostini, who has clinched the World Championship title 15 times, shared his perspective on the competition between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi.

In the annals of Grand Prix racing, Agostini stands out as the sole competitor with a higher number of race victories than Rossi. However, since Marquez entered the premier class in 2013, he outperformed the Italian in the championship standings every season except for two instances (2015, 2020), securing six championships in his initial seven seasons at the top level.

"Marc [Marquez] is the one who really gets to me," Agostini confessed to the Spanish outlet Relevo, "because I believe he brings a thrill to the audience, to those who attend the races. He's someone who really knows how to entertain, and he's adored by all."

"Agostini described Rossi as 'a legend',"

"A strategist on horseback. Achieving nine world championships signifies inherent skill."

Agostini attributes the lack of direct confrontations on the track between the two, particularly beyond the year 2015, to timing and Marquez's personal approach.

Nonetheless, it remains one of the fiercest competitions in MotoGP over the last decade.

"He mentioned that their ages were different," he explained. "One had begun their journey, while the other hadn't. This might have influenced the outcome, you see?"

"While I acknowledge that Rossi has sparked excitement […] Upon reflection, I personally find Marquez to be more impulsive, adventurous, and courageous.

"He embodies resilience, which might appeal more to the audience. Marc consistently shows determination, providing an absolute show."

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Lorenzo Savadori Secures Continued Position as Aprilia MotoGP Test Rider with Latest Contract Renewal

Aprilia has officially announced the renewal of Lorenzo Savadori's contract, maintaining his position as the MotoGP test rider for the team.

Lorenzo Savadori has extended his tenure as Aprilia's designated MotoGP test rider, securing a fresh contract with the Noale-based team for an additional two years.

Under the terms of the recent agreement, Savadori will continue in his position through to the close of 2026, marking his seventh consecutive year as a test rider and coinciding with the last year of the existing 1,000cc MotoGP rules.

"I'm thrilled to extend this journey and carry on with my efforts alongside Aprilia Racing for the coming two seasons," Savadori expressed.

"Over the past few years, our performance has been exceptional, and I am confident that we will keep getting better as time goes on."

"Our progress has been steady and incremental, guided by a singular focus that is always at the forefront of our thinking: elevating the RS-GP to the pinnacle of MotoGP competition."

Massimo Rivola, the CEO of Aprilia Racing, emphasized the critical role that Savadori will play as a test rider for the team, especially this year when Aprilia introduces two new racers: Marco Bezzecchi and the current MotoGP World Champion, Jorge Martin. Furthermore, Rivola confirmed that Savadori is set to participate as a wildcard entry in select Grand Prix events in 2025.

"Rivola expressed delight in announcing that Aprilia Racing will maintain its collaboration with Lorenzo Savadori, who is a cornerstone of our initiative. His role, in conjunction with the test team, has significantly contributed to the remarkable progress made in recent years."

"Sava' symbolizes a sense of ongoing partnership for us, which is crucial when collaborating with a deeply trusted test rider, particularly in a significant year when the factory team will welcome two new members.

"He will also serve as a crucial asset at several Grand Prix events, where his role as a wild card will allow for the exploration of innovative approaches."

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Augusto Fernandez has inked a contract until 2025, following his departure from KTM's MotoGP team, to become a test rider for Yamaha's MotoGP endeavor.

Augusto Fernandez is set to join the Yamaha MotoGP team in the role of a test rider, as officially announced.

After concluding his two-season tenure in MotoGP at the end of the 2024 season, Fernandez, who was released by KTM and the Tech3 squad, is set to team up with Cal Crutchlow in Yamaha's primary MotoGP testing crew.

In his initial two seasons competing in MotoGP, the Spanish rider's top performance was securing a fourth-place finish at the 2023 French Grand Prix. Transitioning to KTM's carbon frame in 2024 did not facilitate progress from his first year at the top tier for the Spaniard. However, due to Yamaha’s present concessions status, he is eligible to participate in as many as six wildcard races in 2025.

"Fernandez expressed his joy and immense enthusiasm about becoming a test rider for Yamaha in 2025."

"I'm immensely grateful to join the Yamaha team, and I extend my thanks to all those who played a role in making this possible."

"In this incredible new initiative, I am committed to assisting Yamaha in regaining their rightful position."

Lin Jarvis, the Managing Director at Yamaha Racing, elaborated that in the event of an injury sidelining one of their four racers in 2025, Fernandez will be the go-to substitute rider. Furthermore, it was hinted that Fernandez is slated to participate in all six of Yamaha's wildcard races.

"Yamaha is focused on advancing our bike technology as we strive to quickly get back to a winning position," stated Jarvis.

"We've officially brought Augusto on board as an additional Yamaha Test Rider, joining forces with Cal Crutchlow. Due to Cal's inability to meet all his testing responsibilities in 2024, it became clear that we required another rider to help us carry out all vital tasks for 2025."

"Our team is confident that Augusto will seamlessly integrate with the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Test Team as well as adapt well to the YZR-M1 motorcycle. Being young and quick, he has the opportunity to work closely with Cal and pick up the unique techniques needed for a dedicated test rider."

Our present performance status enables us to fully utilize the upper cap of the testing program. Beyond these tests, we plan to engage in as many as six wild-card entries. Moreover, Augusto will serve as the primary substitute rider for any members of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team or the Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP Team who might be unavailable to compete at any point during 2025.

The numerous chances to ride should enable Augusto to keep up his pace in racing as he continues with his demanding testing commitments.

"Augusto has already begun collaborating with our team behind the scenes, and his initial genuine trial will occur during the shakedown test in Sepang, scheduled for the end of January 2025."

"Currently, we are closely monitoring Cal's recovery process regarding his arm problems encountered this year, with the expectation that he can swiftly come back to continue with his testing responsibilities."

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KTM terminates former racing star from testing position

Jeremy McWilliams has been removed from his longstanding position as a test rider for KTM.

Ex-Grand Prix competitor Jeremy McWilliams has allegedly been let go from his position as a test rider for KTM, a job he has maintained for a decade and a half.

McWilliams, famously recognized for securing the last pole position on a 500cc motorcycle during the premier class at the 2002 Australian Grand Prix, has held a position at KTM since 2009.

As reported by Speedweek, a German news outlet, McWilliams' contract with KTM, initially set to expire at the end of 2025, has been abruptly ended due to KTM facing financial difficulties. This brings to a close a 15-year partnership between the Mattighofen-based company and the rider from Belfast.

Serving as a test rider for KTM, McWilliams has primarily engaged in testing production models. However, he also played a part in the initial development phase of the RC16.

Lately, McWilliams has played a key role in creating the latest sports model from the Austrian company, the RC 990. This bike is KTM's contender in the Supersport categories, aiming to compete with major models such as the Ducati Panigale V2, Kawasaki ZX-6R, and Yamaha R9.

Prior to joining KTM, McWilliams was part of the BMW S1000RR initiative, where he contributed to the early development stages of the motorcycle. This bike, particularly in its latest M Power version, has since claimed victory in the World Superbike Championship with Toprak Razgatlioglu at the helm.

Recently, the racer from Northern Ireland has also shown strong performance in various competitions. He secured a podium finish in the second Supertwin race at this year's North West 200. Additionally, as a factory rider for Indian in the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers series, which features high-displacement touring motorcycles, he has been in contention for wins.

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Liberty Media faces a new challenge from the European Union regarding its acquisition of MotoGP. The EU is preparing to investigate the planned takeover.

Liberty Media's proposed acquisition of the MotoGP World Championship is facing scrutiny from the European Union, which plans to investigate the transaction.

According to reports from business networks Bloomberg and Reuters, the European Union's newly appointed antitrust leader, Teresa Ribera, along with her team, are concerned that the 3.5 billion euro agreement might hinder competition in the fields of broadcasting and streaming by consolidating the ownership of the MotoGP and F1 brands.

Earlier this year, the American corporation that owns Formula 1 revealed its decision to purchase Dorna Sports and MotoGP, securing an 86% majority stake. Following this announcement, Liberty Media has been working through the required regulatory procedures to finalize the acquisition by the end of the year.

In August, Liberty Media revealed its intention to sell $825 million worth of F1 shares to help finance its proposed purchase of MotoGP.

In November, the company's CEO, Greg Maffei, announced that the acquisition of MotoGP had been submitted to the European Commission for approval.

He mentioned, "Regarding MotoGP, we have submitted a request to the European Commission for regulatory approval, and we anticipate obtaining it by the end of the year."

The European Commission has a deadline of December 19th to decide on Liberty's acquisition of MotoGP. However, with recent developments, it is reported that authorities are getting ready to start a phase 2 investigation by the same deadline. This information, highlighted in a Bloomberg report, also notes that the decision is still preliminary and could be altered.

In 2006, CVC Capital acquired Formula 1 but was compelled by competition authorities to relinquish its stake in MotoGP. This move was due to concerns of monopolistic practices in the motorsport industry, leading to the sale of MotoGP to its current owner, Bridgepoint.

In October of this year, Belgian Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Pascal Arimont requested that the European Commission look into Liberty Media due to concerns that it may have a monopoly in global motorsport, given its ownership of Formula 1 and MotoGP.

Despite past challenges, Liberty has remained optimistic from the start that the outcome will be different this time. When Reuters contacted Liberty Media for a statement, the company did not provide a response at this time.

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MotoGP's Unwanted Award for 'Underachiever of the Year' Handed Out

Our specialists reveal the rider whose performance fell short of expectations in 2024

Everyone aims to avoid falling short of their potential.

Regrettably, during the 2024 MotoGP season, one competitor caught our attention by achieving far less than what we had expected.

In yet another season where Ducati took the lead, Marc Marquez showcased the potential of the GP23, but his fellow competitors struggled to keep up, highlighting his exceptional talent.

This led our specialists to consider which rider in MotoGP fell short of expectations the most this year…

Marco Bezzecchi was anticipated to be a persistent challenger to the leading contenders for the championship once more in 2024. In 2023, he secured victories in three grand prix events, ultimately finishing third in the rankings while representing VR46.

However, in 2024, he did not achieve that level of performance

A significant factor was the GP23's poor compatibility with his aggressive braking technique. Meanwhile, his teammate, Fabio Di Giannantonio, rode the identical motorcycle and led by 12 points in the rankings, even though he missed the last two races due to surgery.

Marco Bezzecchi now has a challenging task at Aprilia as an official team rider, competing against current world champion Jorge Martin.

Jordan Moreland highlights that Marco Bezzecchi delivered impressive performances throughout 2023, ultimately securing a position within the top three of the World Championship standings.

In 2024, his performance fell short as he was trailing by 239 points compared to Marc Marquez's leading GP23 score.

We are hopeful that he will enhance his performance with Aprilia in 2025.

Marco Bezzecchi, who finished just behind Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin last season with three Grand Prix victories, has surprisingly fallen to 12th place in this year's world championship standings, ranking last among Ducati riders.

His standout moment was reaching the podium in Jerez.

Following the signing of Bezzecchi for the 2025 season, Aprilia's Massimo Rivola commented, "In my opinion, the true Bezzecchi is the one we saw last year, not the version we've seen this year."

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Marc Marquez shares his genuine feelings with Valentino Rossi about maintaining their ongoing rivalry

Marc Marquez reacts to Valentino Rossi's frustration

Marc Marquez has shared his thoughts on their ongoing conflict following Valentino Rossi's recent outburst.

Rossi has revived the wounds from their 2015 clash, criticizing Marquez for behaving in an unsportsmanlike manner and holding him responsible for Rossi's inability to clinch the MotoGP championship during that infamous season.

Rossi delivered harsh remarks just as Marquez was getting ready to join Ducati, where he would work with VR46 protégé Pecco Bagnaia.

Marquez has since issued a reply.

According to Marca, Marquez stated that a conflict cannot occur if one party is unwilling.

Trying to dampen the flames ignited by Rossi could be the perfect strategy as 2025 approaches.

Marquez needs to get used to the latest factory Ducati model after spending the previous season on an older version.

Marquez now has the same equipment as Bagnaia, and with Jorge Martin, the champion, getting used to the Aprilia, he can clearly see another MotoGP title on the horizon.

Marc Marquez stated, "I didn't question the decision; I simply asked where to sign." Looking back on a successful 2024, Marquez discussed his significant return to form following the accidents and injuries that plagued his last period with Honda.

He managed to remain a strong contender for the title until the final stages of the championships. His choice to move from Repsol Honda to Gresini Ducati helped him get back to winning races.

"When you suddenly encounter the negative aspects of sports, it transforms you unexpectedly," he explained.

"Sustaining an injury can lead you into a downward spiral, and you understand the potential consequences that might follow."

"After returning from an injury and feeling some discomfort, you realize that winning isn't the usual outcome. It's more common to finish in second or third place, or even lower, since for every victory, there are 20 losses."

This is why I appreciate winning now more than I did in the past.

"This year's team has provided an ideal setting for me to rejuvenate, allowing me to be present without any stress and to enjoy myself. Gresini, a team full of enthusiasm, was originally founded by Fausto and is currently managed by his wife along with dedicated long-term members. It is a satellite team that blends enthusiasm with expertise."

In sports, your current performance defines your value, based on your most recent competitions. I was beginning to excel, adjusting to the Ducati, and continuously improving.

"When I was informed that I had been selected, I didn't question the reasoning; I simply replied, 'Alright, where do I put my signature?' and that was the end of it."

Gigi Dall’Igna informed me, and I responded with appreciation, intending to ensure it's the appropriate choice.

Marquez likened teaming up with Bagnaia in the garage to a football analogy.

"He referred to Vinicius as the key player and the main figure for Real Madrid."

"After that, Mbappé will need to adjust."

Pecco has set the standard in the Ducati team, securing victory in 11 races this season. He contended for the World Championship right up to the final race and has twice claimed the world champion title with this team.

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Departing KTM CEO identifies specific issues from this year

KTM leader evaluates underwhelming performance in 2024

Francesco Guidotti has openly explained precisely how KTM faltered this season.

At the beginning of the season, KTM was expected to be Ducati's primary competitors, but they failed to secure a single victory throughout the year.

Brad Binder secured fifth place, while Pedro Acosta took sixth, emerging as the highest-ranked riders not on Ducati bikes in the MotoGP standings. However, their manufacturer was unable to provide them with a bike capable of winning races.

In a different scenario, Aprilia facilitated victories in sprint races for both Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales. Additionally, Vinales secured a grand prix win at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA).

Although Acosta showed exceptional talent from the beginning, the expectation that he would secure a victory did not materialize.

"We got off to a strong start with several riders making it to the podium. There were high hopes," stated Guidotti, the departing team leader.

"We set an ambitious goal and performed well up until the halfway point of the season."

"Starting around the middle of the season, we faced some difficulties. We followed a path that didn't work out well for us."

"The leading competitors showed slight progress, which widened the gap further."

"In the middle of the season, we experienced an unusual moment."

"That was the moment we missed the opportunity to remain among the leaders."

"The conduct of the riders was commendable; they remained persistent throughout. The technicians also maintained their determination. However, in reality, we were not competitive in the race."

Acosta showed significant potential by finishing in second place in Texas, but unfortunately, he endured eight challenging races without securing a spot on the podium.

Jack Miller and Augusto Fernandez were consistently trailing their respective teammates.

"We needed to go back to the beginning of the film and play it from the start," Guidotti mentioned.

At the tail end of the season, KTM clearly emerged as the leading team. There were a few accidents and various incidents.

"On the whole, it's acceptable, although it's not our ideal situation. However, it's what we're dealing with for now."

"In the beginning of the year, we failed to take advantage of multiple opportunities, which ultimately led to our defeat."

Guidotti is set to step down from his role, with Aki Ajo taking over as the head of KTM's team in 2025.

"There must be. Numerous alterations are taking place," stated Guidotti.

Typically, alterations provide additional inspiration.

"As these transformations occur, we also sacrifice both expertise and a sense of connection."

"I'm confident that Aki will guide the team in his own way."

The roster of riders appears to be noticeably more robust.

Acosta has been elevated to join the factory team with Binder.

The Tech3 KTM team has announced that its lineup will include Enea Bastianini and Vinales.

KTM's concerns might stem from their financial challenges outside of the MotoGP arena.

The company has initiated self-administration following its first €3 billion release.

They assert that their MotoGP plans for 2025 remain unchanged, and they have scheduled tests to jumpstart their development for a strong beginning next year.

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Aleix Espargaro, who recently stepped away from MotoGP racing, has revealed that he is now part of the Lidl-Trek professional cycling squad.

After ending his full-time career in MotoGP, Aleix Espargaro has become a member of the Lidl-Trek professional cycling team.

Starting January 1, 2025, Espargaro will take on a role as an ambassador for the Lidl-Trek team.

According to a statement from the team, Espargaro will participate in the Lidl-Trek team at several of the most renowned events on the schedule.

Espargaro expressed excitement about becoming part of the Lidl-Trek team, which includes some of the top cyclists globally.

"I am eager to gain knowledge from top cyclists and experienced staff, challenge myself, and involve fans in this unique experience."

Espargar, who has been passionate about cycling for many years, shared that he decided to leave his MotoGP racing career sooner than he had intended in order to become part of the Lidl-Trek team.

He expressed that cycling has long been a personal passion, and he chose to leave MotoGP sooner than he initially intended to participate in a program that perfectly matches his interests.

"I am incredibly thankful to Lidl-Trek for accepting me into their team and backing me. I am committed to putting in my utmost effort."

Espargaro revealed that he would step down from competing full-time in MotoGP at the Catalunya Grand Prix, which is his home race, this year.

In addition to his responsibilities with Lidl-Trek, Espargaro has taken on a new testing role for HRC's MotoGP project. He started this position during the official test in Barcelona last month, which occurred after the season-ending Solidarity Grand Prix.

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Davide Tardozzi criticizes Pecco Bagnaia: “Those competitors are defeating you”

“You can’t constantly act politely. It’s not always possible…”

A newly released three-part MotoGP series by Ducati showcases a rather intense exchange between Francesco Bagnaia and Davide Tardozzi.

The documentary series titled "Dream On: Ducati and Bagnaia’s Pursuit of Glory" aims to provide an insider's perspective on the concluding stages of the 2024 MotoGP World Championship, specifically highlighting the Ducati Lenovo Team and their spotlight on Bagnaia.

A significant moment in the initial episode, released on Ducati's YouTube channel on December 15, occurs following the Sprint at the Thai Grand Prix.

Starting from pole position, Bagnaia found himself in third place after the initial corner as his championship competitor, Jorge Martin, overtook him on the inside approach to the first turn.

The Italian rider regained his place ahead of Martin as they exited the corner. However, later in the race, the Spaniard overtook him again during the transition from turn six to turn seven, pushing Bagnaia down to third place.

The scene takes place inside Bagnaia's truck following the Sprint event, featuring a conversation among Bagnaia, his wife, sister, press officer, and Davide Tardozzi, the manager of the Ducati Lenovo Team.

"Martin showed courage today," Tardozzi remarked to Bagnaia.

"The courage to take you down. […] He had already made up his mind to trouble you. He did what was necessary."

"That's your task for tomorrow. You can't constantly be the nice guy. It's not possible, especially when these guys are beating you."

According to the statement, Martin deliberately aimed for you at the initial turn, having premeditated his decision to collide with you. This is absolutely certain.

"You should stop being overly polite, as these individuals will take advantage of you."

Following a last-minute decision, which was highlighted in the initial episode of *Dream On*, Bagnaia's team altered his main bike to a wet setup. This strategic move allowed him to recover from the Sprint's setbacks and secure his first Grand Prix victory in the top category under rainy conditions.

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In August 2024, Alex became a part of the Crash.net team after spending two years reporting on consumer and racing motorcycle news at Visordown.

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The adjustments Aprilia must implement for Jorge Martin to secure a significant place in MotoGP history

While maintaining a MotoGP world championship is challenging, Jorge Martin faces an additional hurdle as he will be defending it with a new manufacturer in 2025.

Spanish racer Jorge Martin's transition from the Pramac Ducati team to Aprilia offers him a unique chance to secure MotoGP championships with multiple manufacturers.

In order for him to achieve that, Aprilia, which secured third place in the constructors' standings this year, must enhance its MotoGP package.

"The situation is indeed a step down," stated Jordan Moreland, host of the Crash MotoGP Podcast, explaining that Ducati's dominance is the reason. He noted that during Jorge Martin's initial test in Barcelona, although his personal thoughts weren't shared publicly, the team appeared to be quite satisfied with the results.

"The focus for Aprilia is on advancing further, as they've been working towards this goal for the past season and a half. The progress they've made, especially compared to Ducati, has been quite evident."

Peter McLaren, the editor at Crash.net for MotoGP, highlighted that a crucial factor for Martin's championship in 2025 is maintaining consistency. This was an area where the Mallorcan excelled in 2024, unlike Aprilia, which struggled with it.

McLaren commented, "I believe it was [Massimo] Rivola who mentioned that they need to improve their overall average, right?"

This year, they stood out as the sole factory to surpass Ducati, marking a significant accomplishment. However, they also fell behind KTM in the constructors' rankings.

"Aprilia's performance has been somewhat inconsistent, and they must improve their average results to remain competitive in the championship race."

Securing the championship would position Martin as just the third racer ever to claim consecutive premier class Grand Prix titles on different motorcycle brands, following in the footsteps of Valentino Rossi (2003–04) and Eddie Lawson (1988–89).

McLaren stated that achieving this would be incredibly significant for Martin.

"To my knowledge, only Valentino Rossi and Eddie Lawson have won consecutive championships with different manufacturers. This presents an opportunity for him to achieve a significant historical feat."

"He definitely faces a significant challenge, but the initial step is to achieve consistency."

"We witnessed Maverick's incredible performances at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), where he secured a victory that left even him puzzled as to why everything clicked so perfectly at that venue. However, he hasn't reached the podium since then, highlighting the importance of consistency."

"It's not the most exciting term, and it might seem dull, but consistency is crucial for winning championships, especially when the season includes over 40 races. This fact was evident this year when Martin managed to outperform Bagnaia, despite Bagnaia having claimed victory in more Grands Prix."

A crucial factor in improving consistency will be making more effective use of the 2024 Michelin rear tire. This was a variable in the past season that only Ducati managed to fully optimize.

Crash.net journalist Lewis Duncan stated that Aprilia's primary requirement from Martin is insight into how the 2024 Ducati managed to optimize the performance of the 2024 Michelin rear tire.

The crucial aspect for Aprilia is this: when you talk to riders from KTM or Aprilia, they’re uncertain but tend to believe that the issues they encountered this year differ from those they faced in the previous year. Consequently, the only thing that can be held responsible is the new rear tire.

"The issue isn't with the rear tire itself; the new rear tire offers such enhanced grip that only Ducati managed to fully take advantage of it."

"After they discovered its potential, no one else could achieve the same."

It has been observed that KTM experienced significant vibration issues, which were likely tied to the rear tire. Honda encountered similar problems, and Ducati faced them initially. While the Aprilia riders did not seem to voice many complaints about vibrations, they dealt with other challenges such as grip problems, traction difficulties, and notably high degradation during Grand Prix races.

The ability to deliver a powerful performance in a single lap was evident, and their speed was acceptable in shorter races; however, they faced difficulties maintaining this over extended distances.

In Malaysia, Aleix Espargaro seemed unaware of the situation. Aprilia is likely expecting that Martin can provide at least this level of insight. If Aprilia's hypothesis is correct—that the issue involves the 2024 rear tire—then Martin is someone who has experience with making that tire perform effectively on a bike.

Nonetheless, even though Aprilia's goals leading up to the 2025 Thai Grand Prix in early March are evident, reaching those objectives will be challenging due to staffing changes in Noale this winter.

Marco Bezzecchi and Martin, along with Fabiano Sterlacchini, the new technical director stepping in for Romano Albesiano, have all now joined the factory.

Duncan stated that Aprilia is undergoing changes with a fresh set of riders and a new technical head, as Fabiano Sterlacchini has stepped in to succeed Romano Albesiano.

Sterlacchini parted ways with the KTM project in June. However, he struggled to fully optimize the performance of the KTM RC16's rear tire before his departure. The team faces a significant winter season, and the initial tests are expected to be intriguing.

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In August 2024, Alex became a member of the Crash.net team after spending two years reporting on consumer and racing motorcycle news at Visordown.

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