2024 Champion Jorge Martin Reflects on Outpacing Bagnaia and Marquez- “ “I Beat the Best Versions of Pecco and Marc’

Jorge Martin Reflects on Battling MotoGP’s Best to Secure 2024 World Title

Jorge Martin, the 2024 MotoGP World Champion, believes his path to the title was marked by defeating the best versions of both Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez. The Pramac Racing star, who will join Ducati’s factory team next season, claimed his first premier class championship after a season-long duel with Bagnaia, culminating in a dramatic final-round decider in Barcelona.

Although Martin secured just three race wins compared to Bagnaia’s 11, his remarkable consistency earned him the championship by a slim margin of 10 points. Reflecting on his triumph, Martin praised his competitors while acknowledging areas for personal improvement.

“I Beat the Best Versions of Pecco and Marc’

“It was incredible winning against the best Pecco,” Martin said, referring to Bagnaia’s dominant race-winning form. “He won 11 races this year, so he was at his peak. I also believe Marc [Marquez] showed his best version, even if his bike wasn’t perfect. I can assure you he pushed it to the limit. And I beat them both.”

Martin admitted that his success came with room for growth: “I need to improve. While I was consistent, I only won three Sundays. I also crashed twice while leading, so there’s always something to work on, and I’ll strive for that.”

Aiming for Legendary Status

Martin also shared his aspirations for MotoGP immortality: “I want to be a legend in MotoGP. Riders like [Jorge] Lorenzo, [Dani] Pedrosa, Valentino [Rossi], and Marc Marquez have left incredible legacies, and I want to be remembered like that.”

From Heartbreak to Triumph

Reflecting on his journey, Martin revealed how his rookie season in 2021 shaped his resilience. After a devastating crash in Portugal left him with nine injuries, Martin spent weeks unable to walk. Winning the championship in 2024 brought those difficult memories flooding back.

“After the race, I was overwhelmed,” Martin said. “Before bed, I cried a lot, thinking about everything I endured. I remembered Portimao, being bedridden, and wondering if I’d ever compete again. To come from that moment to becoming a world champion—it’s unbelievable.”

Martin’s consistency and determination proved pivotal in a season where he faced some of the toughest competition MotoGP has ever seen. Now, as he prepares to join Ducati’s factory team, Martin sets his sights on cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.