Aprilia is preparing to make a significant impact in the 2026 racing season after showing strong performance against Ducati near the end of 2025. Based in Noale and recognized as the only Italian brand in Grand Prix racing, Aprilia targets dethroning Ducati and Marc Marquez, who remain top contenders. With current regulations set to conclude, Aprilia’s status as a concessionary team gives it some development advantage compared to Ducati’s more established setup.
Efforts to Enhance Stability and Riding Ease
Paolo Bonora, Aprilia’s race director, shared insights on the team’s development process during the 2026 shakedown in Sepang. He highlighted that the team has focused heavily on improving the motorcycle’s stability since late last year. Bonora explained that riders Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin requested a bike that was easier to manage, less reactive to sudden grip changes and disturbances.
“Since the beginning of last year, efforts have been underway to improve the stability of the motorcycle. Bezzecchi and Martin asked us for a motorcycle that was easier to ride, less sensitive to disturbances and changes in grip. We worked on it and the result was conclusive. Now we’re working on the engine power and the electronics,”
he stated.
Marco Bezzecchi Takes a Leading Role in Development
The framework of Aprilia’s 2026 strategy includes its full lineup, consisting of four main riders plus test rider Lorenzo Savadori, but the focus remains squarely on Marco Bezzecchi. The Italian rider has earned a role with significant technical influence over the bike’s development. Bonora stated,
“We will start from a base very close to Marco’s, which has proven effective, then we will follow the two development paths necessary for the drivers.”
This shows the commitment to tailoring the motorcycle to the riders’ preferences.
High Expectations Despite Cautious Outlook
While team officials like Paolo Bonora maintain a cautious tone compared to the more direct ambitions expressed by Massimo Rivola, the goal for 2026 remains clear: improvement and competition at the highest level. Bonora acknowledged,
“We don’t want to set the bar higher than last year, but we must do better! We know the drivers have the potential. We had a fantastic end to the season, thanks in part to Raul Fernandez’s victory in Australia. Expectations are high, but we’re not going to rest on our laurels.”
Anticipating Aprilia’s Next Moves in the Championship
Aprilia’s focus on Marco Bezzecchi’s technical input and the ongoing enhancements to bike stability and power position them as serious challengers heading into the 2026 season. With regulatory changes and development opportunities on their side, how effectively Aprilia leverages these elements could reshape the competition dynamic with Ducati and Marc Marquez. The team’s progress will be closely watched by fans and rivals alike as the season approaches.
