“It’s just a matter of time”: Martin sets MotoGP win target after return

Jorge Martin has reminded the MotoGP paddock that he is not only back from injury but also edging closer to his best form. After finishing fourth at the Hungarian Grand Prix in Balaton Park, the reigning world champion declared that it is “just a matter of time” before he is back on the top step of the podium.

The Spaniard has endured a rollercoaster year, one defined by injury setbacks and an off-track saga with Aprilia that tested both his patience and resilience. Yet, with each lap since his return, Martin has been building momentum, and his ride in Hungary signaled that the ‘Martinator’ is once again a looming threat.

A Strong Comeback in Hungary

The Hungarian Grand Prix was only Martin’s third race since returning from a long-term injury sustained earlier in the season. Starting from 16th on the grid, he carved his way through the field with determination, eventually crossing the line in fourth place, narrowly missing the podium.

This result represented not only his best finish since returning but also Aprilia’s most encouraging weekend of the season. Importantly, Martin showed that he could maintain a strong pace across 26 grueling laps on one of MotoGP’s most physically demanding circuits.

“Today I feel like I am back,” Martin admitted after the race. “I could run a strong pace for 26 laps. That is not easy on a tricky track. Today I had no expectations and I was fourth, close to the podium. Maybe next race I am on the podium. Or fighting for the victory, I don’t know. I will give 100%.”

A Champion’s Maturity

Martin’s comments also highlighted a change in mindset. Last year, his hunger to win every race sometimes led to risk-taking that ended in crashes. But at Balaton Park, he opted for a more measured approach.

“Today I could have gone for the podium and crashed. So I prefer to finish fourth and keep building a solid base for the future,” he explained. “I don’t want to do more than what I can. For sure, I still need time with the bike. [But] I am the same ‘Martinator’ as last year. The bike is much better than last year. So it’s just a matter of time before we can fight for victories.”

This perspective shows a more mature rider—one who understands that consistency will be just as important as outright speed if he is to reclaim his throne.

Aprilia’s Faith and Martin’s Motivation

The backdrop to Martin’s comeback has been colored by Aprilia’s tumultuous 2025 campaign. Contract negotiations earlier in the year turned sour, sparking speculation that he could walk away from the Italian team. But with his future now firmly tied to Aprilia, Martin is embracing the challenge.

“I mean, last year I had the hunger for winning the title and that was great,” Martin said. “But now, thinking a bit about my story, the challenge to bring Aprilia to winning gives me much more motivation and joy than just winning races. So the day I win with Aprilia will be fantastic. It will be super good.”

His faith in Aprilia’s project has clearly grown, and he praised the team for their dedication. “The team is working incredibly. I’m really surprised about Aprilia and how they are working, the project and everything. So we are both working in the same direction.”

Proving Critics Wrong at Balaton Park

Balaton Park, the newest addition to the MotoGP calendar, had been criticized by some for its layout, with fears that overtaking would be nearly impossible. Martin’s performance did much to silence those doubts.

“I love it. It’s fantastic,” he enthused. “I mean, people are arguing because they say we cannot overtake. I overtook 12 riders!”

His aggressive yet controlled ride not only entertained fans but also proved that the Hungarian venue could deliver thrilling battles. For Martin personally, it was the perfect stage to remind the MotoGP world of his skill and determination.

The Road Ahead

With eight races remaining in the 2025 season, Martin’s goal is clear: build consistency, return to the podium, and eventually fight for wins again. The Spanish star knows that his body and bike still need time, but every race is another step closer.

The championship itself may be out of reach this season, but Martin has set his sights on 2026 as a year where he and Aprilia could mount a serious title defense. His current mindset—balancing patience with ambition—may be the key to unlocking Aprilia’s first premier-class win and possibly another championship in the near future.

Conclusion

Jorge Martin’s fourth-place finish at Balaton Park was more than just a result—it was a statement. The reigning champion has endured a difficult road back from injury and controversy, but his determination has not faded. With Aprilia improving and Martin rediscovering his rhythm, the MotoGP paddock has been put on notice: the ‘Martinator’ is back, and it’s only a matter of time before he’s winning again.