Spanish authorities have arrested a 44-year-old man accused of stealing Jorge Martin’s high-end Pinarello training bike during the Valencia Grand Prix weekend. The custom bicycle, valued at $23,000 and one of only a few ever produced, was taken from the reigning 2024 MotoGP champion’s motorhome.
According to Spanish outlet TodoCircuito, the Guardia Civil identified the suspect after reviewing CCTV footage from the circuit and surrounding areas. Investigators say the man gained access to the paddock by wearing KTM team clothing and posing as a mechanic, allowing him to move through restricted areas unnoticed. He allegedly entered the truck area and accessed Martin’s personal belongings before leaving with the rare bicycle.
Footage later captured the same individual at a nearby gas station, still dressed in KTM-branded gear and carrying the bike. Police subsequently tracked him to his residence in Madrid, where he was arrested. Reports indicate the suspect has a lengthy criminal history involving theft and had recently been released from prison. He is also being investigated for an unrelated car theft.
The incident has prompted renewed concerns about security inside the MotoGP paddock, which has seen sporadic cases of stolen personal items from staff and media over the years, though targeted thefts involving top riders are extremely rare.
MotoGP officials have not issued a statement regarding the Valencia paddock breach. CN
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