VR46 MotoGP rider Franco Morbidelli is confident that his strong performance in the 2025 season is positioning him to secure the best contract opportunities as he approaches negotiations for next year. With his current contract ending at the close of 2025, Morbidelli’s form on the Ducati GP24 and recent podium finishes have bolstered his standing in the competitive rider market.
Morbidelli’s Progress and Current Standing in the 2025 Season
After signing with VR46 Racing for the 2025 season—a deal viewed by some as a critical last chance following several challenging years—Morbidelli has demonstrated promising results. He secured his first podium finishes since 2021 within the initial six rounds and currently sits fourth in the overall rider standings. Notably, he is placed ahead of his factory-supported teammate, Fabio Di Giannantonio, as they head into the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.
Morbidelli’s contract situation remains unsettled. His VR46 seat is reportedly linked with Pedro Acosta’s potential entry, although recent discussions regarding this possibility have quieted. In addition to staying with VR46, Morbidelli also has multiple viable options for 2026, with available seats at factory Honda, LCR Honda, and Pramac Yamaha teams.
Insights from Morbidelli on the 2026 Rider Market Dynamics
Speaking exclusively at Silverstone, Morbidelli addressed the uncertainties surrounding his future contract negotiations. He acknowledged the relentless pressure within MotoGP’s competitive environment, stating that relaxation is almost impossible despite appearances.
“You can never be relaxed in this world. That’s for sure,”
Morbidelli said.
“What I learned, even if I try to stay relaxed, or everybody sees me as a relaxed kind of person, I can assure you that I’m not. You cannot relax in this kind of world.”
Discussing the timing of the rider market and contract talks, he added that the period is critical as everyone searches for the best possible opportunities.
“Talking about riders market, this is the moment of the year where everybody starts to take into consideration the best chances that they can get. And under this point of view, I’m quite confident that me and my team will take the best chance for performing in the best way, because according to the performance we had at the beginning of this season, we were good enough to have one of the top spots for assuring ourselves the best situation.”
So, we will discuss about it together for sure and we will decide on the best situation for sure.
—Franco Morbidelli, VR46 MotoGP Rider
Ongoing Market Uncertainties Stir Speculation Amid Jorge Martin Reports
The 2026 MotoGP rider market has become increasingly complex with speculation over Jorge Martin’s future at Aprilia. A recent report suggested that Martin is considering leaving the Italian manufacturer. However, Aprilia responded with a statement denying these claims, confirming there have been no discussions about contract changes and emphasizing that Martin’s contract, valid until the end of 2026, remains intact.
Such developments contribute to ongoing uncertainty in the rider market, highlighting how top talents like Morbidelli must navigate a competitive landscape while seeking the best fit for the upcoming seasons.
Looking Ahead: Morbidelli’s Path in a Shifting MotoGP Environment
As the rider market continues to evolve, Franco Morbidelli’s confidence in his current form and team efforts suggests he is well placed to negotiate a favorable contract for 2026. His recent performances and standing among factory-supported peers strengthen his case for remaining at the forefront of MotoGP racing.
The decisions made in the coming months will be pivotal in shaping not only Morbidelli’s career trajectory but also the wider competitive balance across top MotoGP teams such as Yamaha, Honda, and Pramac. Fans and insiders alike will watch closely as the transfer window opens and rider movements begin to take shape.
