The pivotal moments in Jorge Martin’s MotoGP title win

There is no denying that Jorge Martin’s MotoGP triumph in 2024 was built on consistency. No other rider was able to finish on the podium week-in, week-out like the Pramac Ducati man.

But while Martin’s ability to consistently deliver those top-three results ultimately won him the big prize, there were also some standout moments that shouldn’t be overlooked when recapping his title-winning campaign.

The Spaniard built a substantial lead in the championship in the early part of the season and, while it ebbed and flowed as the year went on, he was almost always on the front foot.

In fact, Martin led the championship after 17 of the 20 rounds in 2024, despite his rival winning 11 of the 20 grands prix on the factory Ducati this year, and scoring seven additional wins in sprints. Martin knew when to strike, and he struck well.

Martin dominates in Portugal as Bagnaia tangles with Marquez

Bagnaia had drawn first blood in 2024 by defeating Martin in a straight duel to win the Qatar Grand Prix. It was important for Martin to respond to the defending champion next time out in Portugal – and so he did.

Grabbing the upper hand in qualifying, Martin first closed the points gap to the top with a run to third in the sprint, as Bagnaia ended up fourth after making a costly error while in the lead.

Then, in the main grand prix, Martin brought his A-game to Portimao as he led all 25 laps after seizing the lead at the start. No one could put any challenge to the Spaniard, who ultimately won by just under a second.

Bagnaia was unlucky to be caught up in a collision with Gresini’s Marc Marquez and suffer his first retirement of 2024. But the fact remains that he was circulating in fifth place – and was on the verge of dropping to sixth – while Martin was leading out front.

Crucially, the Portimao weekend gave Martin a healthy 18-point lead in the championship, setting the tone for the rest of the season.

Defeating Bagnaia at Le Mans provides a breakthrough moment

Martin makes a breakthrough by beating Bagnaia in a straight fight at Le Mans

Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images

Martin’s next grand prix victory was of even greater significance. At Le Mans, the Spaniard was the fastest rider in every session that counted: pole position in qualifying, dominant…