MotoGP: Major clash between Aprilia and Michelin after Jorge Martín’s crash
The current affairs of MotoGP are always full of action, and this time, a controversy between Aprilia and Michelin is making headlines. The violent crash of Jorge Martín during testing in Sepang has shaken the paddock, especially due to the tense exchanges between the Italian team and the tire manufacturer. Michelin has tried to justify the incident, but Aprilia is not convinced at all. Once again, the safety of the riders is under scrutiny, and the tension rises as the season progresses.
A fall that raises eyebrows
What was supposed to be a classic testing day in Sepang ended abruptly for Jorge Martín after experiencing a harsh crash, suffering a “high-side“. The current world champion left Malaysia with a fracture in his right hand and several fractures in his left foot. The winter preparations have taken a significant hit for the Spanish rider.
However, what generates the most noise is the cause of the accident. Michelin, the sole provider of tires in MotoGP, quickly pointed out an explanation: a temperature too low inside the tire. But from Aprilia, they dismiss this theory and want to know more about the origin of these compounds.
Aprilia raises its voice
Massimo Rivola, the head of Aprilia, did not take long to react. According to him, the data from the bike shows that there were no technical problems and that Martín made no mistakes. The uncomfortable question that arises is: where does this tire come from? “I have asked Michelin for the history of the rear tire. I would not like to find out that it was stored for eleven months.” A strong statement that hints at serious suspicions in the paddock.
But Aprilia is not stopping there. For the Italian team, the safety of the riders is at stake. It’s not just about Jorge Martín: Fabio Di Giannantonio and Raúl Fernández also fell in Sepang, with fractures included. Enough is enough! Aprilia demands an emergency meeting with all teams to discuss this “critical situation.”
Michelin under pressure
For Michelin, the situation is becoming tense. Accustomed to criticism for being the sole tire supplier for MotoGP, this time the disapproval seems stronger than ever. Spokesperson Piero Taramasso tried to justify Martín’s fall due to a temperature issue, but the justification does not convince. If Aprilia manages to validate its claims and an irregularity with the tires is confirmed, this could shake Michelin’s place in MotoGP. With the last preseason tests scheduled in Buriram on February 12 and 13, Aprilia does not want to take risks with Jorge Martín. The current world champion could be forced to take a forced break to avoid a relapse before the start of the championship, set for March 2 in Thailand.
