Jorge Martin Aims for Comeback at Valencia MotoGP Season Ender

Valencia, Spain – Jorge Martin, the Aprilia MotoGP rider sidelined since a first-lap incident at the Japanese Grand Prix in September, is targeting a return to competition at the season-ending Valencia Grand Prix this weekend. The Spanish racer will need to pass a mandatory evaluation by the FIM Grand Prix World Championship Medical Team to receive clearance to participate in the race.

Martin’s season with the factory Aprilia team has been marred by a series of setbacks, with the collarbone injury sustained at Motegi being the most recent. The incident forced him to miss several races, impacting both his personal championship aspirations and the team’s overall performance in the constructors’ standings.

Aprilia issued a concise statement confirming Martin’s intention to travel to Valencia, stating that he would undergo the necessary medical assessment before being given the green light to race. "Jorge Martin will travel to Valencia for the Valencian Grand Prix," the statement read. "He will still need to undergo evaluation by the FIM Grand Prix World Championship Medical Team in order to receive clearance to race."

Throughout Martin’s absence, Lorenzo Savadori has stepped in as a replacement rider. Following the Portuguese Grand Prix, Savadori bid farewell to the paddock, strongly indicating Martin’s expected return. If Martin receives medical clearance and participates in the Valencia race, it would mark only the eighth occasion in the 22-race season that Aprilia has fielded its intended 2025 rider line-up.

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In contrast to Martin’s disrupted season, Marco Bezzecchi has maintained a consistent presence on the grid, participating in every race. The Italian rider recently secured his second Grand Prix victory of the season at the Portuguese Grand Prix, showcasing a remarkable performance and consistency that has eluded Martin this year.

Martin’s struggles this season stand in stark contrast to the expectations surrounding his move to Aprilia. After demonstrating promise in previous seasons, the switch to the factory team was seen as an opportunity for Martin to elevate his performance and challenge for top honors. However, injuries and other unforeseen circumstances have prevented him from realizing his full potential.

The Valencia Grand Prix represents a crucial opportunity for Martin to salvage something from a disappointing season. A strong performance at the Ricardo Tormo Circuit would not only provide a boost to his confidence but also send a positive message to the team heading into the winter testing period and the subsequent 2026 season.

Meanwhile, another injured rider, Maverick Vinales, is also slated to make his return to racing at Valencia. The Tech3 KTM rider has been recovering from an injury sustained at the mid-season German Grand Prix. After an initial attempt to return, Vinales opted for additional rest and recovery, beginning with the Indonesian Grand Prix last month.

Vinales had originally planned to make his comeback at the Portuguese Grand Prix but decided to allow his injury more time to heal, aiming for a full return at Valencia. His return will be a welcome boost for the Tech3 KTM team, which has been working diligently to improve its performance throughout the season.

The Valencia finale is also of particular importance due to the official test scheduled for the Tuesday following the race. This test offers riders and teams the first opportunity to evaluate their machinery and components for the upcoming 2026 season, making it a critical event for development and planning. Martin and Vinales, along with the rest of the grid, will be keen to maximize this opportunity to gain valuable insights and data.

However, reigning MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez will be absent from both the race and the post-season test in Valencia. Marquez is continuing his recovery from a right shoulder injury sustained in a crash with Bezzecchi during the Indonesian Grand Prix.

Marquez, who has faced a series of physical challenges in recent seasons, is expected to attend the Valencia GP as an observer. He is also scheduled to attend the championship presentation in Valencia on the Sunday evening after the race. His presence at the event underscores his continued commitment to the sport, despite his inability to compete due to injury.

The absence of key riders like Marquez has opened opportunities for other competitors to step up and make their mark. Bezzecchi’s recent victory in Portugal is a testament to the depth of talent in the MotoGP field, with several riders capable of challenging for podium finishes and race wins.

The Valencia Grand Prix marks the end of a season filled with drama, surprises, and intense competition. With several riders aiming to end the year on a high note and teams preparing for the challenges of 2026, the race promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the MotoGP season.

The Ricardo Tormo Circuit, known for its tight and technical layout, presents a unique challenge to the riders. The track’s relatively short length and numerous corners demand precision and agility, making it a favorite among fans and a test of skill for the competitors.

As the teams and riders gear up for the weekend, the focus remains on Martin’s potential return and the implications for Aprilia. His performance, should he be cleared to race, will be closely watched as he seeks to regain momentum and solidify his position within the team. The Valencia Grand Prix is set to be a defining moment, not just for the conclusion of the season, but also for the preparations and aspirations leading into the next chapter of MotoGP racing.