Jorge Martin has responded to criticism from Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola following the controversial opening-lap crash at the Hungarian Grand Prix, calling on the team to remain united as the MotoGP title battle intensifies.
The incident at Balaton Park proved costly for Aprilia, with Martin colliding with teammate Marco Bezzecchi and Trackhouse rider Raul Fernandez at Turn 1. The crash eliminated all three riders from contention and dealt a significant blow to the manufacturer's hopes for a strong result.
In the aftermath, Rivola publicly expressed his frustration, stating that the incident made the team "look stupid" and suggesting that greater caution could have prevented the accident. His comments drew attention throughout the paddock and raised questions about tensions within the Aprilia camp.
Ahead of the Czech Grand Prix, Martin addressed the situation and stressed the importance of maintaining unity within the team.
"If we are one against another, it's like shooting ourselves in the foot," Martin said, emphasizing that internal disagreements would only hurt Aprilia's ambitions.
The Spaniard revealed that he had already spoken with both Bezzecchi and Rivola following the race. While he admitted those conversations were initially difficult, he believes everyone is now focused on the same objective.
Martin said the discussions helped clear the air and ensure the team remains aligned heading into the next phase of the season.
Although he accepted responsibility for the consequences of the crash and apologised to those affected, Martin disagreed with suggestions that the incident was simply the result of rider error.
According to the championship leader, he experienced a loss of front braking performance into Turn 1 and was unable to avoid the collision despite his efforts to regain control of the bike.
"I didn't do anything strange," Martin explained, while acknowledging there were lessons to take from the incident.
He admitted that braking slightly earlier may have helped avoid the situation but made it clear that he has no intention of changing the aggressive racing style that has helped make him one of MotoGP's leading riders.
"I will not lose my hunger," Martin said. "I will continue trying to overtake riders in the first corner because that is my instinct. The day I lose that feeling, I will stay at home."
The comments highlight Martin's determination to remain true to his racing approach while also repairing relationships within the team. As Aprilia continues its push for championship success, maintaining harmony between its riders and management could prove just as important as performance on the track.
With both sides now appearing eager to move forward, the focus shifts back to racing and Aprilia's efforts to remain a major force in the title fight.
