In 2024, Jorge Martin wrote his name into MotoGP history by becoming the first rider in a long time to win the championship title with a satellite team. Riding a Pramac Ducati, Martin managed to outperform Francesco Bagnaia of the factory Ducati team—an achievement not seen since 2001, when Valentino Rossi won the 500cc title with the Nastro Azzurro Honda. Before that, the only similar feat occurred in 1989, when Eddie Lawson took the championship with a privately entered Rothmans Honda.

Having achieved the milestone of a world title, Martin has now set his sights on a new goal: winning with Aprilia. Transitioning to a new manufacturer for the 2025 season is undoubtedly a bold move, especially in an era dominated by Ducati.

Inspiration from Rossi

The precedent for defending a championship title with a different manufacturer was set by none other than Valentino Rossi. After four dominant seasons with Honda, Rossi joined Yamaha in 2004, a brand that was struggling at the time. Critics doubted his decision, but Rossi silenced them in spectacular fashion. At his debut race with Yamaha—the 2004 South African Grand Prix at Welkom—Rossi claimed a legendary victory. This achievement set the stage for his fourth title, cementing his reputation as a rider who could win on any bike.

Now, Martin finds himself in a similar position. Coming off a title-winning season with Ducati, he begins his journey with Aprilia, eager to prove his skill and adaptability once again.

The 2025 Season

The upcoming season kicks off with the Thailand Grand Prix at the Chang International Circuit, a track where Martin has consistently excelled. In 2023, he secured a double win at Buriram and followed it up with two second-place finishes in 2024, showcasing his speed and consistency on Ducati machinery. However, the question remains: can he replicate his success with Aprilia?

Ducati enters 2025 with a star-studded lineup, including six-time champion Marc Márquez and defending champion Francesco Bagnaia. Despite this formidable pairing, Aprilia’s competitiveness in 2024—when it became the only non-Ducati team to win a race—positions Martin as a potential disruptor.

Other Remarkable Debuts: Stoner and Viñales

Only Rossi has managed to win his first race with a new manufacturer as a defending champion. However, MotoGP history features other memorable debuts.

Casey Stoner made an unforgettable switch to Ducati in 2007, claiming victory at the Qatar Grand Prix. Four years later, he repeated the feat with Honda, dominating his debut race in 2011. Stoner’s adaptability and race-winning instinct were unmatched, leading to his second title that year.

Another standout is Maverick Viñales, who joined Yamaha in 2017 after two seasons with Suzuki. Like Stoner, Viñales triumphed in his first race with a new team, winning the Qatar Grand Prix ahead of Andrea Dovizioso and Valentino Rossi.

The Road Ahead

For Jorge Martin, the 2025 season represents more than just a title defense—it’s an opportunity to solidify his legacy. Winning with Aprilia would not only mirror the achievements of MotoGP legends but also prove that Martin’s talent and determination can conquer any challenge.