Next season, Jorge Martín will not use the #1 plate, which he is entitled to as the reigning MotoGP World Champion.
The mystery was resolved this Wednesday with the publication of the provisional entry list. The Spanish rider, now part of Aprilia’s factory team, will continue with the #89, the number he has used since joining the premier class in 2021.
This will mark the first time since 2022 that the #1 will not feature on the grid. Francesco Bagnaia opted to use it in 2023 and 2024, following his two consecutive titles.
It has become somewhat rare for riders to abandon their regular numbers after winning the championship. Before Bagnaia, the last rider to do so was Jorge Lorenzo in 2011.