Janice R. Andrews
Reigning MotoGP champion Jorge Martin has officially chosen to race with the iconic #1 plate for the 2025 season. The announcement came during Aprilia’s grand launch event in Milan, where the team also unveiled its latest RS-GP25 machine.
Martin, who secured his maiden title in 2024 on a Pramac Ducati, now steps into a new chapter with Aprilia, partnering with Marco Bezzecchi in a revamped lineup. This decision makes him the first satellite rider in MotoGP history to claim the championship, adding prestige to his switch.
After weeks of speculation, the 26-year-old Spaniard opted to embrace the coveted #1 plate instead of retaining his signature #89. “In a month we will know,” Martin had teased following his championship win in Barcelona. His decision now symbolizes his dominance on the world stage.
Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola expressed high hopes for the upcoming season. “The 2025 season marks a fresh start for Aprilia Racing. With Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi, we aim to be competitive in every race. The RS-GP25 has immense potential, and our mission is to unlock it across all 22 races,” he said.
The Noale-based manufacturer is entering 2025 with a new approach after Aleix Espargaro’s retirement and Maverick Vinales’ move to Tech3 KTM. Despite standout performances in 2024, including Vinales’ win at the Americas GP, Aprilia ended the season third in the manufacturers’ standings, trailing Ducati and KTM.
By bringing in two ex-Ducati riders, Aprilia signals its intent to challenge for the championship. Bezzecchi, a three-time grand prix winner, joins Martin in what Rivola calls a “strong, talented, and motivated” lineup.
With Martin’s championship-winning experience and the advanced RS-GP25, Aprilia is setting its sights on becoming a consistent front-runner. Fans eagerly anticipate whether the team’s new setup can deliver the results needed to dethrone Ducati and KTM.
Martin’s bold move to carry the #1 plate underscores his confidence, while Aprilia’s ambitions for 2025 hint at an exciting and competitive season ahead.
