VR46 is close to finalizing a new agreement with Ducati to continue their MotoGP collaboration into the 2027 season, despite recent exploratory discussions with Aprilia about supplying satellite bikes for the upcoming 850cc era. The team, led by Valentino Rossi, has maintained a strong relationship with Ducati since entering MotoGP’s premier class in 2022, leveraging the competitive edge of the Desmosedici to secure multiple race victories.
Since 2024, VR46’s connection with Ducati has deepened, as the outfit became a factory-supported team, enabling rider Fabio di Giannantonio to access the latest Ducati machinery directly from Borgo Panigale. Although the existing contract expires after the 2026 season, speculation about a potential switch to Yamaha—where Rossi serves as a brand ambassador—had circulated in the past year.
Insights on Aprilia’s Approach and VR46’s Loyalty to Ducati
Team principal Uccio Salucci revealed in an interview at Buriram with Motorsport.com that while Aprilia initiated contact to discuss a potential partnership for 2027, VR46 never seriously considered leaving Ducati.
“We spoke with Aprilia a little bit because Aprilia wanted to speak with us and we are gentlemen,”
Salucci said. He also emphasized his long-standing relationship with Aprilia’s Massimo Rivola, noting,
“I have known Massimo Rivola for many, many years. When Valentino Rossi tried Formula 1 with Ferrari, Massimo Rivola, he managed the situation in 2004, 22 years ago.”
Salucci further stated,
“I know Massimo; he’s a very good man and a very good manager. We spoke sometimes, two or three times [because] why not? But I never thought of changing from Ducati.”
His comments underline VR46’s enduring confidence in Ducati’s capabilities despite open conversations with other manufacturers.
Contract Negotiations Progressing Toward a Multi-Year Deal
Following Ducati’s reduction to two satellite teams after Pramac moved to Yamaha last year, Salucci indicated VR46 is near completing contract discussions for a new multi-year deal. Sources suggest the agreement will span three seasons, covering 2027 through 2029.
“We are very close to signing. There remain some small, small details. I think in the next month [there may be an announcement]. We are really close to signing for Ducati again,”
Salucci shared.
When asked about satisfaction with Ducati, Salucci was clear:
“For sure. It’s the best bike in the world.”
Broader Context: Upcoming MotoGP Changes and Announcements
The confirmation of VR46’s future with Ducati comes as the entire MotoGP paddock prepares for a significant technical overhaul in 2027, featuring a switch to an 850cc engine formula. Alongside this, manufacturers and teams are negotiating a new commercial agreement with MotoGP Sports Entertainment, previously known as Dorna, which will also take effect next year.
Until these overarching contracts are finalized, teams tend to withhold formal announcements regarding rider line-ups and manufacturer affiliations for the 2027 season. This climate contributes to cautious but hopeful negotiations within teams like VR46.
Significance of Maintaining the Ducati Partnership for VR46
Securing a renewed contract with Ducati is crucial for VR46’s ambitions in MotoGP’s evolving landscape. The sustained factory support provides the Italian squad access to cutting-edge technology and competitive machinery, underpinning their past success and future prospects. As the team prepares for the technical shifts in 2027, continuity with Ducati ensures stability amid industry-wide transformations.
Moreover, Valentino Rossi’s deep ties with Ducati and the team’s history emphasize the strategic importance of this collaboration, marking a determined and resilient approach to staying at the forefront of the sport.
