Martin 'free to sign with anyone' in MotoGP, insists manager

Jorge Martin’s manager Albert Valera has told Autosport that the MotoGP world champion is free to sign with any team for the 2026 season, despite Aprilia’s claims to the contrary.

Martin has been in open conflict with the Italian manufacturer since he officially notified it of his intention to leave the team at the end of the season.

In order to precipitate his departure just a year after joining the Noale-based manufacturer, the Spaniard activated a clause in his contract, which released him from the second year (2026) as long as, after the first six races, he was below a certain position in the championship standings.

Aprilia considers this clause invalid given Martin’s long-term absence due to injuries – he was unable to take part in five of the first six stops on the calendar. In a first statement released at last month’s British Grand Prix, Aprilia insisted that the contract with its rider has a duration of two years, and that he has an obligation to respect and fulfil it.

At the same time, Honda's interest in acquiring the services of the Spaniard is an open secret. However, the Japanese manufacturer would not make a move in this regard until Martin resolves his situation with his current team.

While the disputing parties communicate through their respective law firms, Valera insists that the activation of the clause leaves his client completely free to negotiate and close a new deal with any other team for 2026.

Albert Valera, Riders and football players manager speaks with Massimo Rivola, Aprilia Sports Director

Photo by: Mirco Lazzari GP - Getty Images

“The activation of the clause leaves Jorge free to sign with whomever he wants for 2026,” Valera told Autosport in the paddock at the Assen circuit on Saturday morning.

Regarding Honda's possible interest in recruiting the rider, Martin’s agent did not hide the fact that the firm is a serious option. “Honda is an alternative, obviously,” said Valera.

This follows HRC team manager Alberto Puig saying at Silverstone: “All the teams in the paddock would be interested in a rider like Martin. If a team is not interested in Martin, they are idiots.”

Responding to Valera’s comments on Saturday, Aprilia issued a brief statement: “Our position has not changed since the press release issued on Thursday 22nd of May. Aprilia Racing representatives won’t give any further comment on the matter.”

Martin, meanwhile, is still recovering from injuries sustained in a crash at the Qatar Grand Prix, the only event in which he has participated so far in 2025. Although he has been working out physically for some weeks now, the date of his comeback has not yet been set.

Everything will depend on the medical tests he will undergo next week, which should determine whether Martin will return at the Sachsenring, the next stop on the calendar, or for the following race at Brno.

Before any return, however, he will be allowed a day of testing at Misano following the recent rule change initiated by Aprilia.