Jorge Martín is looking to exit his contract with the factory Aprilia MotoGP team at the end of the 2025 season.
The 2024 MotoGP World Champion has had a disappointing 2025 season so far.
What's Next for Aprilia?
Aprilia's next step is to find a suitable replacement for Martín.
The team needs a rider who can compete at the highest level.
The Case for Ai Ogura
Ai Ogura, the reigning Moto2 World Champion, has impressed in his rookie MotoGP season.
He signed with Trackhouse Aprilia at the beginning of 2025, ahead of fellow Moto2 racer Joe Roberts.
Ogura's ability to leapfrog other racers on track has made him stand out.
Ogura's Performance
In the 2025 Grand Prix of Thailand, Ogura qualified 5th and finished 4th in the Sprint race.
He also finished 5th in the main race, as the highest-placing Aprilia and non-Ducati.
Ogura's performance has been inconsistent, but he has shown promise.
He finished 9th in both the Sprint and main races at COTA in the US.
Ogura qualified 10th in Q2 at the Qatar race, finishing 7th in the Sprint and 15th in the main race.
Replacement Possibilities
If Martín leaves, Ogura could be a strong candidate to replace him.
Other riders may also be considered, but Ogura's performance makes him a top contender.
Aprilia's decision will depend on various factors, including the team's goals and budget.
The 2025 season has been challenging for Martín, and a change could be beneficial for both him and the team.
Jorge Martín's management team and Aprilia will need to come to a satisfactory agreement.
The future of Aprilia's MotoGP team is uncertain, with Martín's potential exit looming.