Jorge Martín to Make MotoGP Return at Qatar Grand Prix
Reigning MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martín is officially set to return to racing this weekend at the Qatar Grand Prix, marking a significant moment in the 2025 season. After weeks of recovery from multiple injuries, Martín has now been medically cleared to participate, pending a final assessment at the Lusail International Circuit on Thursday.
This comeback will be Martín’s debut race of the year, as the Pramac-turned-Aprilia rider was sidelined for the first three rounds due to crashes suffered during pre-season testing. The anticipation around his return is immense, both from fans and within the paddock, as the titleholder looks to defend his crown and start his chapter with Aprilia on a strong note.
A Brutal Start to 2025: Martín’s Pre-Season Nightmare
Martín’s absence from the opening races wasn’t by choice. The Spaniard endured a nightmare pre-season after two major crashes during testing sessions in Malaysia and Qatar. The accidents left him with broken bones in both hands and a fractured left foot—injuries that required two surgeries in under three weeks.
Speaking to Spanish outlet El País, Martín described the ordeal as “the hardest moment” of his MotoGP career, not just physically but mentally. “You prepare all winter to arrive ready for the season, and suddenly everything stops,” he said.
His team at Aprilia, who signed him as their top rider for the 2025 campaign, were forced to start the season without their lead contender. The timing couldn’t have been worse, especially considering this was meant to be the year Aprilia challenged Ducati’s dominance with Martín spearheading the effort.
Road to Recovery: A Long Way Back to the Grid
After surgery, Martín entered an intense rehabilitation phase focused on mobility, strength, and cardiovascular conditioning. In late March, he received clearance from his medical team to resume light training. Over the last two weeks, he gradually ramped up activity, shifting from indoor cycling to outdoor endurance sessions and some light riding on two wheels.
Crucially, his recovery has progressed without complications, which paved the way for his return to Qatar. Still, Martín’s participation in the actual Grand Prix remains subject to one last hurdle: a physical evaluation by MotoGP’s chief medical officer, Dr. Ángel Charte, scheduled for Thursday at Lusail.
If he passes the exam, he will be allowed to participate in Friday’s practice sessions and the rest of the race weekend.
Martín’s Own Words: “Step by Step” Approach
Despite receiving the green light to travel and prepare, Martín has emphasized a cautious return. Speaking to reporters ahead of the event, he admitted that while he’s eager to be back, he is still unsure how his body will react during a full race distance.
“I want to be back as soon as possible, but I also need to be smart. I haven’t ridden this new bike much, and I’m not at 100% yet. This weekend is about getting comfortable again,” Martín explained.
His comment underlines what many analysts expect: Martín won’t be fighting for a win immediately, but rather focusing on regaining race rhythm, understanding the Aprilia RS-GP25 better, and ensuring no setbacks on the physical front.
Challenges out Martín: What’s Changed Since His Absence
While Martín has been sidelined, the 2025 MotoGP season has moved at full speed. In his absence, the title battle has heated up, with Álex Márquez leading the championship standings at 87 points, closely followed by his brother Marc Márquez, who has claimed two race victories with Ducati.
Pecco Bagnaia, another strong contender, secured a key win at the GP of the Americas, putting him firmly in third place in the standings. The current leaderboard reflects a highly competitive field, with Ducati teams dominating the top spots.
Aprilia, on the other hand, has struggled without its lead rider. While rookie Ai Ogura has impressed at Trackhouse Racing—Aprilia’s satellite team—the factory outfit has failed to reach the podium so far. Martín’s return could provide the performance boost and technical feedback they desperately need.
Eyes on Qatar: What to Expect This Weekend
The Lusail International Circuit, known for its long straights and demanding braking zones, will test Martín’s physical endurance and adaptability. Even if he doesn’t push for a top result, every lap completed will be a step forward in his full return to form.
MotoGP insiders believe that if Martín completes the race without aggravating his injuries, he’ll be back in serious contention within a few rounds. The European leg of the calendar begins shortly after Qatar, offering a better opportunity to recover and attack the title once more.
A Personal and Professional Milestone
For Jorge Martín, this isn’t just another race—it’s the beginning of a new journey. After years with Ducati and finally achieving the world title, 2025 was supposed to be his fresh start with Aprilia. The delays have only added to the pressure and expectations.
Still, Martín remains grounded. “This weekend is about reconnecting with the bike, the team, and the competition. If we finish strong and healthy, it’ll be a victory already,” he told Crash.net.
MotoGP Fans Rejoice
As the MotoGP community counts down to the Qatar Grand Prix, the buzz around Jorge Martín’s return adds a fresh layer of excitement to an already dramatic season. Whether he fights for a podium or finishes mid-pack, his presence on the grid will be a welcome sight for fans and competitors alike.
If all goes well in Lusail, the reigning champion’s story of resilience, determination, and skill could become one of the defining narratives of the 2025 season.
Do follow gulf magazine on Instagram
for more information click here
