Change on the horizon: Will Jacky Martens move to Fantic in 2026?

After several successful years with Honda, JM Racing is facing a major shake-up. The Belgian team, led by former world champion Jacky Martens, will end its collaboration with the Japanese manufacturer at the end of the 2025 season. This opens a new chapter – and raises the question: Which brand will Martens compete with in the 2026 season?

Rumors about factory status

According to initial information, the 61-year-old could soon enjoy the coveted factory status again. In recent days, rumors have intensified that Martens will Fantic Factory MXGP Team Background: Louis Vosters' current Fantic factory team is set to switch to Ducati in 2026. This would free up the entire Fantic structure in the Grand Prix paddock – an ideal opportunity for Martens to continue at the highest level.

Evidence from the beach racing scene

A possible clue to this new partnership can be found in this year's beach racing scene. Martens' son Yentel competed in several beach races on Fantic bikes at the beginning of the 2025 season. This is where initial contact with the Italian manufacturer's management is said to have been made.

Martens' experience as factory team boss

A move to Fantic would bring Martens back to a role he knows very well: leading a factory team. From 2014 to 2019 he successfully led the Husqvarna Factory Team in the Motocross World Championship. Under his leadership, Husqvarna celebrated several Grand Prix victories and top placings during this time before Martens set out on his own with JM Racing.

Possible reunion with Brent van Doninck

It could also be a smooth transition for Martens in terms of personnel: his current MXGP top rider Brent van Doninck According to initial information, Fantic also has an offer. This would make it possible for the Belgian and his team boss to work side by side in 2026 – just in new colors and under a new manufacturer banner.

Official confirmation is pending

There's no official confirmation yet – neither from Martens, nor from van Doninck, nor from Fantic. But behind the scenes, many things point to a scenario. Starting in 2026, the Belgian could once again play a key role in a factory team. For JM Racing, this would be a logical step to remain competitive in the MXGP circuit. At the same time, it would mark a return to a factory-based structure, something Martens has already successfully managed at earlier stages of his career.

Excitement before the 2026 season

If the rumors prove true, we could see an exciting reshuffle in the paddock next season, with Jacky Martens as the new face at the helm of Fantic in MXGP and possibly with a familiar rider at his side.