Jorge Martin disclosed on the Gypsy Tales podcast that he had already signed a contract to join Ducati's factory MotoGP team for the 2023 season, but the manufacturer later told him, "you're not going there; we want another rider." The Spaniard, who debuted on Ducati machinery with the Pramac squad in 2021 and captured the 2024 world title on the same bike, said the decision left him to stay with Pramac, where he still rode a factory-spec machine.
Martin had been a leading candidate for the factory seat in 2025, even receiving a nod ahead of the Italian Grand Prix before Ducati reversed course after Marc Marquez publicly refused a works bike at Pramac. The slot ultimately went to Enea Bastianini, who secured four wins in 2022. After a turbulent 2025 with Aprilia—marked by injuries and a contract dispute—Martin confirmed he will move to Yamaha for the upcoming season.
His remarks underscore how rider agreements can be fluid in MotoGP, with manufacturers often renegotiating or reallocating seats. Fans will now watch how Martin adapts to Yamaha and whether Ducati's handling of contracts influences future rider negotiations.
