Aprilia has officially introduced the RS-GP26, its new MotoGP bike designed under the current 1000cc engine regulations. The launch event took place at Sky Italy’s headquarters in Milan, where riders Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin revealed the latest version of the RS-GP, which features the team’s classic black livery. The unveiling signals Aprilia’s commitment to pushing forward in the MotoGP championship and improving upon its past performances.
Enhanced Design and Performance Focus
The Noale-based manufacturer has upgraded all components of the RS-GP26, refining aerodynamics, chassis, and electronics. While the engine regulations impose a freeze from 2025 onward, Aprilia’s V4 powerplant has still undergone extensive development in permitted areas. These technical advancements aim to boost the bike’s competitiveness as it enters the next season under Fabio Sterlacchini, Aprilia’s new technical director, who has already overseen a strong late-season performance improvement.
Building on a Successful 2025 Campaign
Last year marked a historic moment for Aprilia, as the manufacturer secured its best-ever result by finishing second in the MotoGP manufacturers’ championship, trailing only Ducati. The team amassed four Grand Prix victories and three sprint wins, demonstrating a consistent upward trajectory. This successful run was driven largely by Marco Bezzecchi, whose debut season with Aprilia followed three years with VR46 Ducati. Bezzecchi’s breakthrough came at the British Grand Prix, culminating with consecutive wins in Portugal and Valencia, propelling him to third place in the riders’ standings behind Marc Marquez and Alex Marquez.
I’m happy to finally be talking about motorcycles again, I’m really eager to start and we still have a lot of work to do, although in reality we’ve never stopped: at Noale, the company is working intensely and I’m training continuously. The motivation is high, I can’t wait.
?Marco Bezzecchi, Rider
Jorge Martin’s Preparation for a Strong Comeback
Jorge Martin will enter his second season with Aprilia in 2026, determined to overcome a challenging debut year marked by three injuries and contractual uncertainty. Having returned fully committed to the team through the end of 2026, Martin will race once again with his familiar #89 number after riding with #1 plates in 2025 as the reigning Pramac Ducati champion. Following his latest injury in Japan, Martin made a return at the Valencia finale and has spent the winter focused on regaining peak fitness.
After the experience we had last year with Aprilia and the very important recent tests in Valencia, the goal now is to continue growing together,
There will certainly be a lot of work to do at the beginning of the season, but we know very well where we need to improve. This will be a year in which I want to fight for the top positions and win again. As soon as I’m 100% physically fit, we’ll be ready for anything.
?Jorge Martin, Rider
Continued Development with Experienced Test Rider
Aprilia also confirmed that Lorenzo Savadori will remain as its test rider for 2026. Savadori has played a critical role in the ongoing refinement of the RS-GP during recent years, providing vital feedback to the technical team. His continued presence underscores the factory’s dedication to incremental progress through thorough testing and development.
Looking Ahead to 2026’s Racing Season
With the RS-GP26 embodying technical improvements and a focused team roster, Aprilia aims to build on its promising 2025 results. Led by riders Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin, the team is motivated to challenge more consistently for top positions and victories. As testing progresses and the season approaches, Aprilia’s blend of resilience and optimism sets the stage for a thrilling championship campaign, seeking to close the gap with dominant rivals like Ducati.
