An extraordinary achievement by Valentino Rossi has finally been equalized, and another legendary milestone might soon follow. Jorge Martin, the MotoGP world champion, is firmly writing his name in the sport’s history books.
First Independent MotoGP Champion in Over Two Decades
Riding for Pramac Ducati, Jorge Martin became the first independent rider to claim the MotoGP championship since Valentino Rossi’s legendary triumph 23 years ago.
Back in 2001, Rossi made history with Nastro Azzuro Honda, mastering the iconic NSR500 during the final chapter of the 500cc era. Similarly, Martin’s victory demonstrates the potential of independent teams, proving they can stand tall alongside dominant factory squads.
This achievement is monumental, as MotoGP’s competitive landscape has often been dominated by factory-backed riders. Martin’s success with Pramac Ducati not only highlights his immense talent but also showcases the rising prominence of independent teams in modern racing.
The Chance to Break Another Historic Record
Jorge Martin’s ambition doesn’t stop here. In 2025, he will embark on a new challenge with Aprilia, aiming to achieve what only Valentino Rossi managed in the past—winning the opening race of a season as the reigning champion with a new manufacturer.
Rossi’s move from Honda to underdog Yamaha is one of MotoGP’s most celebrated stories. Against all odds, he won the first race of 2004 in South Africa, delivering a stunning performance that redefined the sport.
Martin’s upcoming transition from Ducati to Aprilia draws clear parallels to Rossi’s iconic switch, and expectations are sky-high.
“I think this is a huge challenge, and it’s going to be very difficult,” Martin told Motorsport.
“Switching from a dominant project like Ducati to something less proven isn’t easy. But I’m confident. I believe this new journey will give me even more motivation to succeed.”
Martin continued: “I’ve had an incredible time with Ducati, where I was able to win the title. But this new project with Aprilia inspires me to create my own legacy in MotoGP.”
When asked about his chances of winning the opening race in 2025, Martin exuded confidence: “Absolutely. Like Gigi Dall’Igna says, if you start a season without believing you can win, you might as well stay home. From the very first race, I think I can do it.”
The Roadmap for 2025 and Beyond
As Martin looks ahead, he acknowledges the challenges of adapting to a new manufacturer and project.
“At the start, it’s going to be about building and learning,” he admitted. “We need to improve every day, and then we’ll see what we can achieve.
“If we start strong, the sky’s the limit. If we face struggles early on, we’ll have more work to do. But I truly believe in the massive potential of this project.”
Spotlight on Jorge Martin
In 2025, Martin will team up with Marco Bezzecchi as they take on the MotoGP season with the Aprilia factory team. However, all eyes will undoubtedly be on Martin as he defends his title.
“Being the champion is an unbelievable feeling,” he said. “I haven’t even had a moment to rest since winning—it’s been non-stop. But I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity.
“I’m lucky to be in this position, and I owe everything to my family, my team, and everyone involved. Slowly, I’m starting to process just how monumental this achievement is.”
Martin’s journey, from independent champion to potentially breaking even more records, positions him as one of MotoGP’s most electrifying and trailblazing riders. The world will be watching as he aims to leave an even bigger mark on the sport’s legacy.
