Aprilia will start again from Jorge Martin in the next MotoGP season, the Madrid native who currently leads the rider standings on the Pramac team’s Ducati. A surprise market coup, almost unexpected even by his great friend Aleix Espargaró. In the aftermath of the Italian Grand Prix, the Venetian manufacturer announced the hiring of the 2018 Moto3 champion and reigning vice-champion, waiting to understand who his garage partner will be.
Aleix’s hand
Playing a fundamental role in Jorge Martin’s entry into Aprilia was Espargaró, who admits that he did his best to convince him immediately after the Mugello race. “It was a very unique situation. After the race Jorge and his manager realized that his option to go to Ducati was not as clear as they thought“. In fact, the Borgo Panigale leaders had clearly veered towards Marc Marquez. “So he started talking to different manufacturers and came to my camper – says the Captain of Granollers -. We talked until midnight and I tried to convince him that Aprilia was the best solution for him because I know how high Aprilia’s potential is, how good the team is and I know his talent.“.
At that point Massimo Rivola prepared everything in a hurry to make the official announcement within a few hours. “It was a really good opportunity for Aprilia and we didn’t think it could happen. For me it’s a dream to have Jorge on my bike next year“. The objective will be the chase for the MotoGP title and Aleix Espargaró says he is certain that the bike will be ready to compete on equal terms with the Red. “It seems that since I arrived at Aprilia, eight years ago, we have not stopped growing. I’ve won some races in the last few years and he’s very talented, very hungry and he’s young“.
Maverick’s reaction
Noale managed to secure the Spanish talent, but has not yet received the OK from Maverick Vinales. Jorge Martin’s arrival certainly makes him happy and this could push him towards signing, even if the transfer sirens continue to ring. “I’m happy for the team, they deserve another top-level rider… It doesn’t matter if I like it or not. Ultimately I have to look at my future. I have to like the project and then I will decide. But I want to wait a while to see which project best fits my present and future“. Apparently the fact of not having been notified in advance of his arrival did not please ‘Top Gun’. But this should not affect the final choice of him.
Jonathan Rea, the official biography available on Amazon
