In an exclusive interview with AS in Austria, current MotoGP world champion Jorge Martín laid bare his long-term vision: to race—and perhaps defeat—Marc Márquez when the eight-time champion is at his zenith. By placing Márquez alongside Valentino Rossi among the sport’s greatest, Martín defined that as the ultimate benchmark.
“Lo tiene muy controlado. Estamos seguramente, junto con Rossi, ante el mejor piloto de la historia y en su mejor momento…”
“…es muy difícil, pero ahí está nuestro reto… dar lo mejor de mí y lo mejor de Aprilia para ver si eso me da para acercarme y pelear contra un Marc Márquez así. Eso es lo que está en mi mente y a por lo que voy.”
(Diario AS)
The Making of Martín’s Ultimate Challenge
For Martín, the phrase “at his best” carries enormous weight. He explicitly positions Marc Márquez among the elite—on par with the incomparable Valentino Rossi. Martín acknowledges they might be the “best riders in history,” with Márquez being the archetype of riding talent and precision. To face him in peak form is, in Martín’s own words, the highest test imaginable.
(Diario AS)
This reveals a mindset forged from ambition, self-belief, and respect for the greatest competitors. Despite the pressure of defending his title, Martín maintains a grounded perspective, driven not by ego, but by the desire to push his own limits.
Context: Martín’s Resilience and Transition
This statement arrives amid a pivotal chapter in Martín’s career:
- From Ducati to Aprilia: After winning the 2024 MotoGP title with satellite Ducati, Martín made the bold move to Aprilia—an outfit yet to secure a premier-class championship. Embracing the underdog role became part of his identity.
(Crash.net, Diario AS, Wikipedia) - Injury setbacks in 2025: His title defense was derailed early by a series of serious injuries—fractured bones and a pneumothorax—that forced him to miss multiple opening rounds. Yet, he returned determined to build momentum with Aprilia.
(Paddock GP, Crash.net, Wikipedia) - Mental fortitude: Martín’s path to the 2024 title wasn’t purely about speed—consistency, self-trust, and emotional control played pivotal roles in his breakthrough season.
(Red Bull, Autosport)
What It Means for MotoGP Fans
1. Respecting the Legends, Chasing the Future
Martín’s statement acknowledges Rossi’s legacy and Márquez’s prowess. It shows a champion aware of his predecessors, but also keen to carve out his own place—which may come from dueling with greatness and proving his mettle.
2. A Strategic, Long-Term Vision
Rather than seeking immediate glory, Martín frames his ambition as a long-haul effort. He’s building with Aprilia, viewing setbacks as part of a broader project to become stronger.
3. Reviving the Rivalry Narrative
MotoGP thrives on storied rivalries. Martín’s open admiration for Márquez—even as a competitor—adds a compelling chapter to the sport’s ongoing narrative.
Final Thought
Martín’s journey from satellite Ducati rider to MotoGP champion, then transitioning to Aprilia amid injuries—with his gaze fixed firmly on racing the great Marc Márquez at full strength—is a powerful story of resilience, respect, and ambition. It’s not just about winning races; it’s about pushing the boundaries of what he—and the sport—can achieve.