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Yamaha set to offer Jorge Martin MotoGP deal, but there’s a catch

Photo by Stephen Blackberry/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
Photo by Stephen Blackberry/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
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Jorge Martin is being linked with yet another move in MotoGP, this time with a switch to Yamaha.

Martin joined Aprilia last season after leaving Ducati. He lost out on a factory seat to Marc Marquez despite winning the title with Pramac and then made the switch over to their Italian rivals.

His 2025 season was ruined by injuries, limiting him to just seven Grands Prix. Hoping for a smoother 2026, he’s already hit an early setback.

The 28-year-old has chosen to skip the Sepang test following surgeries on his scaphoid and collarbone — injuries carried over from last year. The decision is a blow for Aprilia and adds more uncertainty around his future.

Aprilia have already committed to Marco Bezzecchi, handing him a new two-year contract. With Martin seemingly falling down the pecking order in Noale, there are now rumours that he could be set for another change of scenery.

Yamaha to make Jorge Martin’s 2027 deal dependent on injury recovery

Aprilia's Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi pose for a team photo together ahead of the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix.
Photo by Gold & Goose Photography/Getty Images

Jorge Martin is reportedly set to join Yamaha in 2027, with the team acting quickly following Fabio Quartararo’s expected move to Honda.

Martin has avoided commenting directly on the rumours during his time in Sepang, but Yamaha might be waiting before finalising their offer. Speedweek has reported that they want one thing from the Aprilia rider first.

The Japanese team are said to want confirmation that Martin is fully fit, and not just a sign-off from a doctor. They want clear proof he’s back to full strength.

For Yamaha, it’s about more than just physical recovery. They need assurance that Martin can get back to the form that made him a champion in 2024. With Bezzecchi already pushing Aprilia into race-winning contention, there’s pressure on Martin to show he can still compete at that level.

No change in Yamaha’s plans as Jorge Martin remains key target for 2027 season

Yamaha remain interested in signing Martin for 2027, wanting another proven title-winner on their roster following reports linking Fabio Quartararo with an exit. The arrival of a new V4 engine next year signals further changes ahead, and Alex Rins’ future also remains uncertain.

The team are keeping an eye on Toprak Razgatlioglu as well. If he impresses during his first MotoGP season with Pramac Racing, a promotion could follow. But it will depend on how quickly Toprak adapts from superbikes into MotoGP machinery.