Jorge Martin believes that Ducati is ‘regretting’ not signing a contract with him for 2025
MotoGP™ World Champion Jorge Martin has not held back in addressing Ducati’s decision not to sign him for their factory team in 2025. Speaking on a Spanish TV program, Martin expressed his thoughts on the controversial announcement and the challenges it brought during his historic 2024 campaign.
“They Might Be Regretting It.”
Looking back, Martin admitted that the decision was made before his incredible title run. “When everything was decided, I wasn’t the champion yet,” he explained. “It’s hard to predict these things, but it’s clear that right now, they might be regretting it. But you’d have to ask them. In the end, I focus on myself. Life takes you to places you don’t expect.”
This remark underscored Martin’s frustration with being overlooked despite his undeniable potential. By season’s end, Martin had claimed the ultimate prize, becoming the first independent rider to win the MotoGPTM championship—a historic feat that will forever be associated with his name.
Ducati’s Fairness During the Season
When Ducati announced their factory team lineup for 2025, which excluded Martin, speculation swirled about how it might impact their treatment of Pramac Racing, Martin’s satellite team. At the time, Ducati led the team standings by 39 points, but their rider’s title was at risk of going to a competitor—Martin himself.
Despite the tension, Ducati maintained a fair approach. “My equipment was the same as Pecco’s; I can’t deny that,” Martin acknowledged. “But the treatment at the factory level is entirely different. When you’re a factory rider, you have an entire team working to ensure you win. In my case, it felt like 12 people from my team were up against 200 or 300 from theirs. It makes things harder.”
Initially, Martin and his team feared that Ducati might prioritize their factory riders at the expense of his title run. “Sure, I was scared—Paolo [Campinotti, Pramac’s team boss] was scared; everyone was scared, even the media,” Martin said. “People thought they might do something to cost me the championship. But I’m grateful Ducati didn’t do anything against us. They were noble, and that’s admirable.”
Criticism of Ducati’s 2025 Handling
Despite his gratitude, Martin didn’t shy away from criticizing Ducati’s management of their 2025 lineup. “The way they managed it wasn’t great,” he stated in a MotoGP.com interview. “There’s no point creating hostility over their decision. I need to focus on next season and finding solutions.”
Martin emphasized the importance of maintaining professional relationships. “I’ve spoken with Gigi [Dall’Igna] and Claudio [Domenicalli], and they know how I feel. At Sachsenring, I made it clear: ‘Now I can make history as the first independent rider to win the MotoGP championship.’ And I did just that. I’ll always be remembered for this.”
A Legacy Cemented
Martin’s 2024 triumph is a testament to his resilience and talent. While his relationship with Ducati remains complex, his achievements as the first independent rider champion have etched his name in MotoGP history. As he gears up for 2025, the spotlight will be on how Martin navigates the new season with Ducati and builds upon his remarkable legacy.
The MotoGP paddock eagerly awaits the official tests in Sepang, where Martin’s potential to defend his crown will truly be put to the test.
