Jorge Martin showed fighting spirit to secure his first Aprilia victory in a stunning Le Mans double with victory in Sunday’s MotoGP race.
The 2026 season has marked a year of redemption for Martin after a difficult debut campaign with Aprilia in the premier class.
Having not won a Grand Prix since the 2024 Indonesian Grand Prix, the Spaniard arrived at Le Mans with a point to prove after his encouraging start to 2026.
On Saturday at the Grand Prix of France, Martin claimed victory in the Sprint Race after taking the lead at the opening chicane.
However, Sunday’s main race proved more difficult early on, with Martin ending the opening lap outside the top 5.
As teammate Marco Bezzecchi began to edge clear at the front, Martin fought his way back through the field.
By Lap 18, the Spaniard had climbed from seventh to second place and started closing the gap to Bezzecchi.
Only 7 laps later, Martin made his move for the lead, demoting Bezzecchi to second place.
The 2024 MotoGP world champion then controlled the race from the front and crossed the line to secure his first Grand Prix victory with Aprilia.
After winning in Le Mans, Martin told Speedweek, “Over the past year, I’ve learned never to give up. This was one of those races.
“I started well and never gave up, even during the phases where I wasn’t feeling so comfortable. The front was very unsettled when I was behind other riders.
“With clean air, it was easier. I overtook rider after rider and figured out how to close the gap a bit. I controlled the early laps so I’d have a little more left at the end.
“I’m very happy with the work we’re doing with Aprilia. But I still struggle a bit behind other riders, although when I’m in the lead, I can ride good lines.”
Jorge Martin is ‘grateful’ Aprilia kept him for the 2026 MotoGP season
At the 2025 Grand Prix of France, Martin reportedly informed Aprilia that he wanted to leave the team at the end of his difficult debut campaign.
The situation led to months of uncertainty between Martin and Aprilia, with the Spaniard attempting to find a way out of his two-year contract a season early.
However, Martin ultimately remained with the Italian manufacturer for 2026 — a decision he is now “grateful” for after securing his first Grand Prix victory with the team.
“Back then, it wasn’t just physically difficult for me, but also mentally,” Martin explained.
“I remember how, a year ago, I wanted to tell Massimo (Rivola) here that I was leaving the team. In my opinion, that was the best option at the time.
“Now I’m grateful to Massimo for keeping me. But I’m also grateful to myself for deciding to end the fight and stay with Aprilia.”
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