Aprilia is heading toward an internal world championship battle at the highest level in MotoGP—Bezzecchi and Martin see each other as a source of motivation
Following the French Grand Prix, signs are mounting that an internal duel between the Aprilia factory riders for the title is developing in the 2026 MotoGP season. After Jorge Martin’s one-two finish at Le Mans, he is now just one point behind championship leader Marco Bezzecchi.
The discussion about a possible early decision in the title race was further fueled by the serious crash of reigning world champion Marc Marquez, who is expected to miss at least one race, possibly more.
Martin initially responded with clear words of sympathy: “I want to send Marc my full support. You never want to see another rider injured. It was a nasty crash, but we all know that Marc always comes back stronger.“
”We make each other better“
When asked about the dynamic within Aprilia and the fact that his teammate is his fiercest title rival, Martin even sees this as a strength. After all, Bezzecchi has become a benchmark for him anyway: ” Marco is my motivation. When he’s strong, he brings out the best in me.“
The 2024 world champion also emphasizes the technical proximity within the team, which accelerates the mutual learning process. ”We ride the same motorcycle. If he tries something and it works, it works for me too. That’s why we keep making each other better and better,” says Martin.
Martin draws a clear sporting conclusion from this: internal rivalry is not a risk, but a competitive advantage. “If it stays that way, we’ll be one step ahead of everyone else.”
Bezzecchi warns against early predictions
Bezzecchi also sees the situation in a similar light, but remains cautious about making specific title predictions: “It’s still too early to talk about the championship. But Jorge raises the bar and constantly pushes me to improve.”
At the same time, the Italian sees this as the key to his own development. “I want to use him as motivation to get stronger every day. And I’m sure he’s doing the same with me,” emphasizes the current championship leader, adding: “It’s good to be in this position, but there’s still a long way to go.”
He takes the internal team rivalry in stride, albeit with respect: “It’s difficult because he’s very strong, but it’s positive because I can learn from him every day.”
Bagnaia sees title potential in Martin
Someone who knows exactly what it’s like to battle Martin for the title is Francesco Bagnaia. While he managed to prevail in 2023, he lost the world championship crown the following year to his then-Ducati teammate. Looking ahead to the current season, he speaks candidly about Martin and his recipe for success.
“He’s clearly a title contender. He’s using the same strategy as in 2024, when he beat me: always finish the race, always score points,” Bagnaia says, analyzing Martin’s strength. “If he can’t win, he takes the best result. That’s exactly the trait that cost me the 2024 championship.”
Despite their battles on the track, the two maintain a good relationship. That’s why Bagnaia is also happy for Martin: “He deserves it. Last year he had a very tough season. To return to this level is admirable.”
Rivola: “As long as there is respect…”
At Aprilia itself, the internal dynamic is seen as a challenge, but not as a risk. Racing Director Massimo Rivola emphasizes the clear structure within the team: “It’s a nice challenge. I’m not worried so far.”
The internal rule is clear and simple. “They know that the simple rule is: respect for the people in the garage, in Noale, and among the riders,” explains Rivola, summing up the situation pragmatically: “Of course, only one can win. If it’s an Aprilia, I’m satisfied.”