MotoGP: Fabiano Sterlacchini on Jorge Martin's 2025 Season
Jorge Martin faced an exceptionally challenging 2025, marked by injuries and a contract dispute with Aprilia’s management, which affected his peace of mind. Despite the difficulties, the 2024 MotoGP world champion remains hopeful about contending at the front next season, thanks to Aprilia's strong performance this year.
Insights from Fabiano Sterlacchini
Fabiano Sterlacchini, Aprilia’s technical director and formerly KTM MotoGP staff, shared his perspective on Martin's tough year. He acknowledged the rider’s struggles and the complexities involved in his recovery and return to form.
«Jorge Martin's situation, clearly, has been quite a difficult journey as we have gone through several learning stages. And then he came back mid-season when Marco Bezzecchi was in really great form. And, of course, for a rider as talented as Jorge, and a world champion to boot, it's not so easy to accept having to fight to recover.»
During the season, the team implemented solutions that helped Martin regain respectable competitiveness despite the interrupted learning phase. Sterlacchini highlighted the importance of continuous adjustments and testing to support the rider’s comeback.
Pre-Return Testing and Adjustments
Before Martin’s return at the Czech Grand Prix, Aprilia focused on improving bike ergonomics and developing a solid motorcycle setup. Sterlacchini emphasized the necessity of starting competitive from the very first free practice sessions in MotoGP’s demanding format.
«During the Misano tests, before his return at the Czech Grand Prix, we did some pretty interesting work with Jorge on the ergonomics side, but also on finding a base for the motorcycle, because in this sport, with the format we have, it's super important to be competitive from the very first free practice sessions.»
Summary
Jorge Martin’s 2025 was marred by setbacks, but Aprilia’s efforts and technical improvements give hope for a strong comeback next season.
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