After confirming Marco Bezzecchi’s contract extension at Sepang, Aprilia became the first MotoGP manufacturer to finalize part of its lineup for the next two seasons. Bezzecchi chose to remain with Aprilia in Noale despite lucrative offers from Japanese teams. With this key signing secured, Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola has reached an initial milestone, but the team still faces the challenge of filling the second rider position. Speculation is growing as Jorge Martin may be set to join Yamaha, leaving Aprilia in urgent need of a replacement for their factory squad.
Rivola Discusses Ongoing Rider Recruitment and Market Timing
Speaking in an interview with motogp.com during the Malaysian Grand Prix, Rivola acknowledged the early stage of negotiations, stating,
“It’s too early to say. But the good thing is that, once we’ve sorted out our priority, we’ll have time to look at the market.”
He emphasized the strategic advantage of having time to explore potential candidates firmly, indicating Aprilia’s cautious but deliberate approach to building their next lineup.
Ambitions for an Italian Lineup Amid Financial and Competitive Challenges
Rivola shared his vision for an all-Italian team, though he noted that some top riders may be financially out of reach. Pecco Bagnaia, in particular, is reportedly demanding a salary beyond Aprilia’s current budget. Still, Rivola mentioned ongoing talks with several viable Italian contenders, including Enea Bastianini, Fabio Di Giannantonio, and Franco Morbidelli, the latter of whom may lose his spot in the VR46 squad. Aprilia’s growing competitiveness, especially following their strong end to the 2025 season, enhances their appeal to riders seeking better opportunities.
April’s Strategy Includes Multiple Contingency Plans to Secure Riders
The team is preparing for various outcomes, understanding the precariousness of the current rider market. Rivola jokingly remarked,
“Aprilia never sleeps. There’s a Plan B, a Plan C… and even a Plan D.”
He added with a laugh,
“It’s still early. But if we show we have a fast bike, it might be easier to implement Plan B than Plan Z.”
Despite his lighthearted tone, the seriousness behind these strategies is clear, revealing Rivola’s focus on ensuring Aprilia remains competitive regardless of how negotiations unfold.
Implications for Aprilia’s Future Competitiveness in MotoGP
Finalizing the second rider will be pivotal for Aprilia’s prospects in the coming seasons. Rivola’s efforts to secure talented riders reflect the company’s commitment to both performance and nationality preferences, even amid financial constraints and market volatility. As rumors about Jorge Martin’s potential departure persist, Aprilia’s multi-tiered approach to recruitment aims to safeguard the team’s stability and maintain their upward trajectory in MotoGP.
