Jorge Martin “in pain” after Brazil, “better rider” than 2024 MotoGP title season

Jorge Martin’s best weekend at Aprilia has taken its toll physically, as MotoGP moves straight from Brazil to Texas for the US Grand Prix.

COTA was among the many events Martin missed last year due to injuries, with follow-up surgery also depriving the former world champion of vital pre-season testing.

But a pair of top fives at the Thai season opener was followed by a double podium in Goiania, where he formed a dream Aprilia one-two behind team-mate Marco Bezzecchi on Sunday.

“There's no better way I could start the season. I'm so thankful to Aprilia, to the doctors, and to everybody,” Martin told MotoGP.com on Thursday in Texas.

“But honestly speaking, I feel a bit of pain after Brazil. I think back-to-back races for me are not the best.

“So let's see how my body will react to the first laps here in Austin. It’s quite a physical and demanding track.

“I think I was in a better shape in Brazil than here, but we will see during the next few days.”

Reflecting on his current level compared to his 2024 title-winning campaign with Pramac Ducati, Martin believes he has taken another step forward.

“I always try to improve during my career, so I think now I'm a better rider than I was in ’24. That's for sure. But the level always rises, and the bikes improve,” Martin said.

“For me, the expectations are the same as the first rounds, just to finish is already a good target, to make points.

“This will be important at the end of the season. So try not to overdo it and bring the bike back home.”

Martin starts this weekend second in the world championship, eleven points behind Bezzecchi.