Aleix Espargaro wants to see Jorge Martin "win races with Aprilia"

This is one of the rumors that is shaking the paddock of MotoGP in recent days. Jorge Martin could end his contract with Aprilia as early as the end of 2025 to join another team in 2026, in this case Honda. Present at Silverstone, the 7th round of the season, since he obtained a wild card, his friend Aleix Espargaro was questioned at a press conference on the subject.

The Spanish rider, riding a Honda HRC Test Team this weekend, believes his compatriot can achieve great things at Aprilia. And that he has no influence on Martin's future or career. "Without saying it's thanks to me, I pushed the management of Aprilia a lot and I pushed Jorge a lot. I tried to convince him as much as possible to join them last year.", Espargaro first admits.

Before continuing: "I promise I never told him to join Honda. I think it's not the right time yet.", the Catalan explains further.

Espargaro: "All teams would like to have the world champion, that's for sure"

"Obviously, Jorge is an incredible rider. Every team would love to have the world champion, that's for sure. I would love to see Jorge win races with Aprilia, but I will respect his decision. The only thing I can say, though, is that I never pushed him to join Honda.", insists Espargaro.

This Thursday, May 22, Aprilia broke its silence in a statement. The Italian team confirmed that the contract between it and Martin, which began on January 2026st, remains fully valid and effective until its expiry date. That is, at the end of the XNUMX season.

Furthermore, the Noale structure was keen to clarify that it has honored all the terms of the contract, within the agreed timeframe and conditions. And that it will continue to do so until its expiration. Finally, the trans teamalpine denied any rumors of negotiations aimed at modifying the duration of the agreement. "The contract remains as originally signed.", she confirms.

ALSO READ > Aprilia Racing puts an end to rumors: Jorge Martin will stay until 2026