Jorge Martin says his track record is proof he’s still better than Marco Bezzecchi

Martin and Bezzecchi go way back, having faced off as far back as 2018 in Moto3. Martin came out on top that year, taking the title while Bezzecchi finished third.

The two also shared time in the Ducati system between 2022 and 2024, though Bezzecchi spent that stretch riding a year-old bike.

When asked by AS whether he still rates himself above Bezzecchi, Martin didn’t shy away from backing himself. He acknowledged the Italian’s recent form but pointed to his overall track record as evidence.

While it would only take one more win for Bezzecchi to equal Martin’s career tally of eight, he trails significantly in poles (10 to 20) and podiums (19 to 32). More importantly, Martin has a championship to his name while Bezzecchi does not.

“I think Marco is clearly at a very high level, and right now he’s the favourite,” said Martin. “There’s not much more to it. But I would say you weren’t wrong to say that.

“It’s clear that after what I’ve been through I have to keep working hard to get back to my peak level, but, as I said before, it’s just a matter of time, and I’m very calm about that.

“I think our track records speak for themselves. And then, I don’t know, I’m not going to back down against riders I’ve already beaten in the past. I have to keep going down my own path.”

Does Aprilia Have the Right Team to Challenge for the Title?

There are some who think that giving Bezzecchi a clear lead role could be Aprilia’s best shot at challenging Marc Marquez in the title race.

Bezzecchi is coming off a new contract, while Martin is set to join Yamaha in 2027, stepping in for Fabio Quartararo.

The question of who should lead isn’t straightforward when one rider isn’t decisively ahead. There hasn’t been enough head-to-head time between Martin and Bezzecchi at Aprilia to make that call.

If Martin can avoid injuries this season, and with Bagnaia still finding his footing at Ducati, Aprilia could be well-placed to make a serious push for the teams’ championship.