Aprilia Racing’s 2024 MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin will not take part in the upcoming Sepang pre‑season test as he continues to recover from surgery, the team has confirmed.
Martin’s preparations for the 2026 season have again been disrupted by injuries, extending the challenges he faced throughout his difficult 2025 campaign. After undergoing two revision surgeries in December to address longstanding injuries to his left wrist and right collarbone, he is still not fully fit to ride.
Missing the Sepang test is a significant setback for Martin. The three‑day session in Malaysia is crucial for riders to familiarise themselves with the new RS‑GP26 machine, evaluate parts and setups, and begin shaping development before official testing and the start of the season.
Despite not riding, Martin will travel to Malaysia to support the team and observe progress from the sidelines. He is also expected to participate in MotoGP’s official season launch event in Kuala Lumpur on February 7.
To ensure Aprilia still gathers essential data at Sepang, the team’s experienced test rider Lorenzo Savadori will fill in for Martin. Savadori, who has previously stood in for the Spaniard during injury absences, will handle development work throughout the pre‑season sessions.
Martin’s current recovery plan aims for a return to track action at the Buriram test on February 21–22, giving him limited time to ride ahead of the season opener in Thailand on March 1.
The decision underlines Aprilia’s priority of ensuring Martin achieves full fitness before returning to competition, with the team emphasising that his long‑term health and performance remain the focus.
