Martin predicts a fierce battle: “Marco, Raul and Marc will be very strong”

Flashback: A year ago, Phillip Island was just one of many rounds that took place without Jorge Martin due to injury. Consequently, the 2024 champion is taking to the very distinctive island circuit for the first time on the Aprilia RS-GP. This is no obstacle for the experienced Spaniard: “I have a close connection with the circuit, I know it well and have always been quick here. And it’s not the first time I’ve had a debut with this bike. It’s not an advantage, but it’s not a major disadvantage either.”

Martin, who, with five rounds remaining in the World Championship standings, is just two points ahead of world champion Marc Márquez and 46 points ahead of team-mate Bezzecchi, continues: “One thing is certain: Aprilia will have a good package here too.”

Which is also causing next year’s Yamaha rider a bit of a headache. ‘JM89’ on Phillip Island: “We’re now on a circuit where all the speed comes together – everyone who’s been at the front recently, and everyone who’s at the top of the World Championship, will be really strong here. Marco had an outstanding pace in 2025, Raul will be at the front again, and then Marc. He loves this track. If conditions allow, it’s likely to be a very close battle.”

Zuletzt standen bei Aprilia-Werkfahrer auf dem Podest

Foto: Gold and Goose

It’s worth noting that, like Martin, Marquez didn’t race in 2025 due to a shoulder injury. On this left-hand circuit, the World Championship contender has already secured four MotoGP victories. In 2024, Marquez won – ahead of Martin.

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Phillip Island: International Stream

MotoGP World Championship

22.10.2026 - 23:55

Jorge Martin, too, who confirmed in Australia that he had fully recovered from a gut infection, cannot help but feel a certain sense of wistfulness regarding the venue ahead of the first day of practice. As is well known, the MotoGP circus is set to move to Adelaide in 2027 – provided a mutually acceptable agreement can still be reached there between the organisers, regional politicians and environmental campaigners. The Aprilia rider said: “Of course, it’s a shame – the circuit itself is uniquely beautiful, and the whole atmosphere here is something wonderful. I’ll miss this place for a few more years, but perhaps we’ll come back again.”

In keeping with the locals’ mood, there are plenty of signs pointing to a wet Grand Prix. The championship leader takes a matter-of-fact view: “I can’t influence it, so I’m not going to drive myself crazy over it. I’ve been quick here in the wet before, though the risk is higher for everyone.”