Jorge Lorenzo delivers a searing verdict on the 2023 MotoGP season, declaring Aprilia superior to Ducati while crowning Marc Marquez as the Ayrton Senna of MotoGP. Speaking at EICMA in Milan, the three-time world champion dissected the championship’s dramatic twists, rider performances, and the fierce battle shaping the sport’s future.

Lorenzo was unequivocal about Aprilia’s technical edge this year. “Aprilia’s bike was capable of leaning far more than the Ducati, it was lighter, and had an incredible cornering angle,” he stated plainly after a candid chat with Aprilia’s Fabiano Sterlacchini in Thailand. “If Bezzecchi hadn’t made mistakes and finished his races, Aprilia would have won the World Championship 100%. Technically, Aprilia was superior to Ducati.” Yet, it was Bezzecchi’s early-season crash and subsequent errors that derailed their title bid, opening the door for Marquez’s resurgence.

On the pivotal incident involving Martin’s crash in Australia, Lorenzo offered a nuanced take that challenges simplistic narratives blaming Marquez. “Martin’s Aprilia moved when he hit a bump or kerb, but his body position suggested he might have had an issue with his forearm,” Lorenzo explained. “This may have delayed his direction change, making him run wide into the dirty part of the track before falling. Only Martin knows for sure.” The crash, Lorenzo lamented, robbed fans of a thrilling finale with multiple competitive contenders — Aprilia, Ducati, Marquez, and Martin all within striking distance.

When assessing Marquez’s current dominance, Lorenzo praised the Spaniard’s technical prowess despite his lingering arm injury: “Marc is still the best technically. Since his MotoGP debut, he’s done things no one else can. The injury reduces his technical advantage, but if he were at 100%, he’d win even more.” He also highlighted the rising threat of Pedro Acosta, emphasizing that Acosta’s youth, physical condition, and fearless riding style position him as a future force, potentially Marquez’s heir.

Lorenzo’s respect for Marquez borders on reverence. “Marc is the Ayrton Senna of MotoGP, the Max Verstappen of motorcycles. Technically, he’s on another level,” he asserted. This comparison underscores just how dominant and influential Marquez remains in the sport.

Turning to Ducati’s struggles this season, Lorenzo acknowledged Pecco Bagnaia’s talent but noted the challenge of competing against Marquez at his best. “Pecco is a great, clean, technical rider, but Marquez is Marquez,” he said bluntly. The relationship between Lorenzo and Ducati’s Gigi Dall’Igna remains strong, with Lorenzo recalling a message he sent after Bagnaia’s first world title, celebrating Ducati’s long-awaited triumph.

Looking ahead to 2027, Lorenzo predicted an intense rivalry between Marquez and Acosta. “I hope injuries don’t play as big a role as this year,” he said. “If not, we’ll witness some insane battles.” He also speculated on Bagnaia’s future at Aprilia, believing the bike’s precision and cornering ability will suit Bagnaia’s smooth riding style, especially without Marquez as a teammate.

Lorenzo even reflected on a hypothetical scenario: “If I were on the Aprilia with my best form from 2015 or 2018, I’d have done very well.” This confident admission highlights just how much he believes in Aprilia’s potential.

With his sharp insights and bold declarations, Jorge Lorenzo has once again proven why his voice carries weight in MotoGP. His verdict on Aprilia’s technical superiority, Marquez’s legendary status, and the season’s defining moments provides a compelling and unvarnished look at the pinnacle of motorcycle racing today.