Ducati’s Influence Denies Aprilia’s Test Request for Jorge Martin Before Qatar Return

Ducati played a key role in denying Aprilia’s request for Jorge Martin to test before his Qatar return. The proposal was rejected in an MSMA meeting due to lack of consensus among manufacturers. Ducati’s General Manager criticized Aprilia’s public handling of the situation and stressed the importance of careful consideration prior to any changes in regulations.

Ducati has played a pivotal role in denying Aprilia’s request for a special test session for injured rider Jorge Martin prior to his return to competition in Qatar. This decision emerged from a heated deliberation within the Manufacturers’ Association (MSMA), which concluded without the necessary unanimous consent for the proposed adjustment to testing regulations. In this meeting, Ducati General Manager Gigi Dall’Igna expressed frustrations regarding how Aprilia officials, Paolo Bonora and Massimo Rivola, publicly announced their testing request, which may have undermined the process.

During the MSMA meeting held before the Americas Grand Prix, a proposal to alter testing regulations was discussed. Despite the lengthy discussions, it failed to garner support from all manufacturers, particularly with Honda shifting its position to vote against the proposal, ultimately leading to a rejection of Aprilia’s request. Ducati did not act against the majority ruling but aligned with Yamaha. KTM was supportive of the test, yet consensus was unattainable.

Dall’Igna articulated Ducati’s stance, stating, “Ducati did not oppose [the test]… we felt it was fair to make an exception for him.” However, he emphasized that mid-season rule alterations should be avoided. Dall’Igna criticized Rivola’s handling of the issue, claiming that it contained misrepresented information and compromised the confidentiality of MSMA discussions.

Moreover, Ducati representatives highlighted the complexities surrounding any potential rule changes related to testing, which should involve thorough considerations. They asserted that a simple focus on the test overlooks crucial factors, such as logistics for satellite teams, which must be addressed to ensure that regulations remain fair and functional.

This recent development has left Jorge Martin in a challenging position as he navigates his injury recovery without riding any motorcycle before the Qatar events, showcasing the impact of the MSMA’s decision on both his and Aprilia’s aspirations in the current MotoGP season.

In summary, Ducati’s influence has been crucial in denying Aprilia’s request for a special test for Jorge Martin. This decision stems from a lack of unanimous support among the manufacturers, particularly highlighted by Ducati’s criticisms of Aprilia’s approach. Dall’Igna’s comments reflect the intricacies involved in modifying testing regulations, emphasizing that thorough discussions and considerations are essential. Therefore, the decision leaves Martin facing an uncertain return as he hopes to recover before his next race.

Original Source: www.motorsport.com