Jorge Martin’s debut season with Aprilia has gotten off to a nightmare start. After suffering an injury on the first day of testing in Sepang—one that required surgery and forced him out of the rest of pre-season—the reigning World Champion was hit with another major setback just days before the opening round.
While training, Martin crashed and fractured bones in his left hand—a separate injury from his previous one in Sepang. Once again, he underwent surgery, which was successful, but it means the MotoGP grid will be without its World Champion when the lights go out at the Thai GP.
Making a first public statement since his latest injury, Martin made it clear that while he’s down, he’s certainly not out.
“Blows are always tough, but when they come one after another, the impact multiplies. This time, they have been especially hard, both physically and mentally, and for the first time in my life, they have made me miss the season's opening race,” the Spaniard posted on his Instagram page.
“The year is not starting as I would like. On Monday, while training for the first time after the crash in Sepang to be in the best possible condition for Thailand, I suffered a highside that caused four new fractures, in addition to the three I was already dealing with from two weeks ago.
“One thing I know for sure is that blows can be overcome. I don’t know if this will make me stronger, but I do know that I will push through, just as I always have. My only goal now is to recover 100% so I can get back to racing and enjoying my passion—motorcycles. Because there are many races, but only one hand.
“Thank you to Aprilia for supporting me at all times, to my family, to all my fans, and to everyone who encourages me every day. From the bottom of my heart.”
With Martin sidelined, Aprilia Test Rider Lorenzo Savadori will step in for the season opener. Fans and the team alike will be hoping for a swift recovery as Martin works to get back on track as soon as possible.