Jorge Martin’s 2026 Move Blocked Over Aprilia Contract

Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta has confirmed that Jorge Martin cannot switch teams for the 2026 MotoGP season unless he formally resolves his contract with Aprilia through mutual agreement or a court decision.

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MotoGP star Jorge Martin faces uncertainty about his future as Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta confirms he will not allow the Spanish rider to race for any team in 2026 unless Martin officially resolves his contract dispute with Aprilia.

The controversy erupted after Martin’s manager, Albert Valera, claimed that the reigning world champion had triggered a release clause in his Aprilia contract, reportedly tied to performance benchmarks — effectively making Martin a free agent.

However, Aprilia Racing swiftly rejected the claim and insisted that Martin must fully honour his contract, which they maintain remains valid until the end of the 2026 season.

Ezpeleta, siding firmly with Aprilia, emphasised that Dorna would uphold the terms of existing contracts and block any rider from switching teams without a formal settlement.

“If both parties agree to end the contract, then it can happen. But if only one side claims termination, it’s a matter for the courts,” Ezpeleta said.

“Dorna will not allow any rider to compete in the championship unless there’s a formal resolution — either mutual agreement or a legal ruling.”

Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola echoed Ezpeleta’s stance and reaffirmed that Martin remains contractually bound to Aprilia.

“Our position hasn’t changed. Jorge is still our rider. As Carmelo said, if the contract isn’t cancelled, he can’t go anywhere,” Rivola stated.

At present, the only realistic seat available for Martin in 2026 is at Honda, which has yet to confirm a teammate for Joan Mir. But that move remains on hold until Martin settles the contract saga.

Despite the ongoing turmoil, Martin is likely to return to racing soon after recovering from the injury that sidelined him for nine of the first ten rounds this season. His comeback now carries more than just competitive stakes, as it directly impacts the future of his MotoGP career.