A new MotoGP documentary has provided fresh insight into the contract dispute between Jorge Martin and Aprilia, revealing that Honda had made a “really good” offer for him for the 2026 season. Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola said Martin’s manager, Albert Valera, told him that Honda was seriously interested, which triggered the conflict.
Martin had only taken part in one race weekend for Aprilia in 2025 due to injury when news emerged that he wanted to leave the team for 2026. He attempted to activate a performance-related clause in his contract, but Aprilia rejected it because he had barely ridden the RS-GP.
Rumours that Martin was considering a move to Honda gained traction when Valera confirmed at the Dutch Grand Prix that HRC was a genuine option. Honda denied making any offer, insisting it doesn’t negotiate with contracted riders.
The situation was eventually resolved after Aprilia threatened legal action and Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta stepped in. Martin ultimately agreed to stay for the second year of his contract. When he later spoke to the media in Brno, he said he had no reason to apologise, explaining that he believed he was doing what was best for his future and referencing doubts caused by a major crash in Qatar.
In the documentary From Heaven to Hell, Rivola recounts his discussions with Valera and Martin, including a trip to Madrid to confirm the situation. Martin told him he thought leaving Aprilia was the right move, but Rivola refused to release him, saying he believed he knew what was better for the rider’s career.
The story first came to light after the French Grand Prix, and shortly afterward Aprilia claimed victory at Silverstone with Marco Bezzecchi.
Be the first to comment