The MotoGP rider market has experienced significant upheaval in the past week, with speculation mounting that Marco Bezzecchi may welcome Francesco Bagnaia as his new teammate at Aprilia starting in 2027. This comes amid rumors of Jorge Martin’s planned move to Yamaha after a troubled stint with Aprilia and Fabio Quartararo’s potential switch from Yamaha to Honda, stirring widespread changes across leading teams.
Amid this volatility, Aprilia confirmed that Marco Bezzecchi secured a contract extension with the team for two more seasons, yet the identity of his future teammate remains uncertain, with Bagnaia’s name increasingly prominent in discussions surrounding Aprilia’s lineup.
Bezzecchi Open to Sharing Garage with Bagnaia in 2027
In an interview with MOW, Bezzecchi addressed the evolving rider market and was asked about his preference for who he would like alongside him at Aprilia in 2027. The six-time Grand Prix winner expressed satisfaction with the current team but lamented the limited time riding with Jorge Martin.
I hope everything goes well this year, even though I know it definitely will. But you know, it doesn’t change much for me. I have to do my part. So I do my part and let Rivola do the rest.
– Marco Bezzecchi, MotoGP Rider
Bagnaia has emerged as a top candidate for Aprilia and Yamaha following indications that he is unlikely to renew his contract with Ducati’s factory team. An experienced rider agent closely involved in MotoGP developments labeled Aprilia as “the best option” for Bagnaia given his current career trajectory.
When questioned about the possibility of Bagnaia joining Aprilia, Bezzecchi said the situation was complex but expressed a positive personal sentiment.
It would definitely be cool, because in the end, he’s a friend of mine. But it’s also a topic I can’t really get into, it doesn’t concern me, and it’s not my thing. I leave everything to those who do it for a living.
– Marco Bezzecchi, MotoGP Rider
Assessing the Field and the Challenge of Overcoming Ducati
Looking ahead to the 2026 MotoGP season, Bezzecchi shared his thoughts about the competition and whether Aprilia or any other team can challenge Ducati’s dominance. While cautious due to the season not yet starting, he expressed optimism about the high level of competition.
He praised reigning world champion Marc Marquez for his strength and acknowledged the speed of other Ducati riders, while also recognizing promising talent from younger riders and other constructors.
The Hondas, because Mir was fast at the end of the season, and Luca, if he hadn’t had his season-ending injury, would have grown more or less like Mir. Yamaha has been strong with the V4, and Toprak is there.
– Marco Bezzecchi, MotoGP Rider
Bezzecchi mentioned that key competitors like Pedro Acosta, Maverick Vinales, Raúl Fernández, and Ai Ogura will also be factors, underscoring how deep the field is across manufacturers and riders as the new season approaches.
What Bezzecchi’s Future at Aprilia Means for MotoGP
Marco Bezzecchi’s contract extension with Aprilia and the potential arrival of Francesco Bagnaia as his teammate could significantly alter the team dynamics and the balance of power within MotoGP. Bagnaia’s possible switch would provide Aprilia with an experienced and accomplished rider alongside Bezzecchi’s rising talent, potentially increasing Aprilia’s competitiveness against the dominant Ducati and other top teams.
With strong rivals like Marc Marquez, Pedro Acosta, Toprak Razgatlıoğlu, and others ready to challenge for victories, the presence of two skilled teammates could be crucial for Aprilia’s aspirations for a MotoGP title. The decisions made in the coming months will shape how Aprilia positions itself in the grid and the championship battles ahead.
