Marco Bezzecchi claimed victory at the MotoGP British Grand Prix, marking Aprilia’s return to the top podium position after an extended period. The win was particularly meaningful during a challenging time for the team, according to Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola, who praised Bezzecchi’s dedication both on and off the bike.
CEO Rivola Highlights Bezzecchi’s Commitment and Motivation
Rivola expressed deep satisfaction with Bezzecchi’s performance, noting the rider’s strong commitment:
“I’m super happy for Marco, because he’s someone who always gives everything he has on the bike and also off the bike. After the last race, he sent us a video message to distrubute to all the company, to say: «Guys, I believe in the project, keep pushing». When you feel that help and responsability, for sure it’s a big motivation,”
he said.
Potential Shown Early in Thailand Tests and Subsequent Races
When asked if he anticipated such an early victory, Rivola pointed to Bezzecchi’s impressive form in the Thailand tests, which had already raised expectations. Despite mixed qualifying results and some setbacks in Argentina, Bezzecchi consistently showed strong race pace.
“Honestly, I think he already showed the potential in the tests in Thailand, which were super good, and the expectations in Thailand were good. Then, the qualifying was not good, but the result was decent. Then he was very fast in Argentina, but [once] again, the qualifying didn’t go as expected and the race finished in the first corner because he was too keen to win the race on the first lap, let’s say,”
Rivola explained.
Consistent Progress Through European Rounds Sets Stage for Win
Rivola reflected on Bezzecchi’s steady improvement in the European rounds at Jerez and Le Mans. After an early mistake, Bezzecchi’s race pace matched the top riders like Pecco Bagnaia and Álex Márquez, signaling readiness to capitalize on his capabilities.
“If we see the two previous races – Jerez and Le Mans – after the mistake, his race pace was the same as the front riders – maybe not Marc [Márquez]‘s, but Pecco [Bagnaia]‘s and Álex [Márquez]‘s, let’s say. So, we were just waiting for him to put everything together. When we saw the qualifying here, with the performance that you have, it’s bad to start P11 and in the main race P10 thanks to [Franco] Morbidelli’s penalty. But, luckly, the race went quite well and he was just perfect, honestly,”
Rivola added.
Win Signals Bright Future for Bezzecchi and Aprilia
This British GP victory not only reestablishes Aprilia’s competitive position but also affirms Marco Bezzecchi’s rising talent in MotoGP. Rivola’s reflections show confidence in Bezzecchi’s ability to consistently challenge top contenders moving forward. With his strong resolve and evident skill, the Aprilia rider appears poised to deliver more significant results throughout the season.
