MotoGP world champion Jorge Martin is poised to make his long-awaited return to racing this weekend at the Qatar Grand Prix. He missed the opening three rounds of the 2025 season due to injury.
The Spanish rider, who recently joined Aprilia following his dramatic title win with Pramac Ducati last year, suffered fractures to his right hand and foot. This occurred during a crash in pre-season testing in Malaysia this February.
“I have a great desire to be back on the track and I’m happy to at least be able to try and race in Qatar,” Martin said in a statement from Aprilia. “I don’t know how my physical fitness will be—undoubtedly not 100 percent—but if we can manage, it will be a victory. That will mean I’m beginning to recover.”
Martin’s comeback begins at Lusail International Circuit on Friday. The first practice sessions of the Qatar Grand Prix weekend will kick off his return. Despite trailing current championship leader Alex Marquez by 87 points, Martin is optimistic. He aims to build momentum and regain his form with the RS-GP25.
The early season standings are currently led by Gresini’s Alex Marquez. He holds a narrow one-point advantage over his brother and six-time world champion Marc Marquez. Marc has returned to top form with two Grand Prix victories and three sprint wins this season.
Martin’s return is one of the most anticipated moments of the 2025 MotoGP season. Fans await to see how quickly the defending champion can close the gap and reignite his title defence.
