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Jorge Martin's incredible comeback season continued at Assen as the Aprilia Racing rider reclaimed the MotoGP World Championship lead with a third-place finish at the Dutch Grand Prix.
After missing pre-season testing through injury and enduring a difficult start to 2026, Martin admitted that leading the championship again seemed almost impossible just six months ago.
"Six months ago, I didn't even know if I'd be able to start the season. I never imagined I'd be leading races and fighting for the championship."
Martin enjoyed strong weekend, claiming his first pole position for Aprillia and leading the opening stages of Sunday's race. However, the race pace of Trackhouse Aprilia duo Raul Fernandez and eventual race winner Ai Ogura proved too much in the closing laps, leaving Martin to settle for third.
It proved to be a crucial result, as teammate and championship leader Marco Bezzecchi crashed out early at Turn 15, handing Martin a seven-point advantage in the standings heading into the Sachsenring.
Despite returning to the top of the championship, Martin believes there is still more performance to find.
"I'm still adapting to the Aprilia after missing so many laps in testing. I'm focusing on improving the feeling with the bike rather than thinking about the championship."
The Spaniard also reflected on the challenges that have shaped his season.
"Everything teaches you something, even the hell that was 2025. I had to grow up fast."
Martin added that rebuilding his relationship with Aprilia has been vital, insisting the team must remain united if they are to challenge the might of Ducati and Marc Marquez.
"Staying united at Aprilia is the only way to beat a beast like Marc and Ducati."
With the championship battle heating up and momentum swinging back in his favour, Martin heads to Germany leading the standings—a remarkable turnaround for a rider who wasn't even sure he'd make the grid at the start of the year.
