Aprilia confident for 2026: "Our bike will be better"

The start of the season MotoGP Aprilia's 2025 season was anything but easy. Between Jorge Martín's recurring injuries and Marco Bezzecchi's need for time to adapt to his new bike, the brand didn't have an easy start. However, the Noale-based firm gradually gained momentum throughout the season, eventually becoming a serious rival to Ducati in the fight for victory.

When it comes to reviewing Aprilia's season, Massimo Rivola, the brand's director, is naturally satisfied, but does not forget the ordeal his team went through: "It was very emotional in a way. The start of the season was very bad because of Jorge's injury. It was very bad for him, and also for us. Being without the reigning world champion is a big loss. Fortunately, with Marco, the job was done perfectly."

He insists: “I feel it’s important to point out that this was Marco’s first year with Aprilia. Normally, when a rider changes bikes, it takes a little time. But we saw Marco’s performance right from the start. It was simply a matter of putting everything together to understand what he wanted from the bike. When we found the solution, he was full of confidence, he proved he could fight for the title. I’m sure this will also be a motivation for Jorge next year.”

Besides the Italian's exploits in the factory team, the riders of Aprilia's satellite team, Trackhouse Racing, made a strong impression. Raúl Fernández secured his first three MotoGP podium finishes this season, including his maiden victory in the category at the Australian Grand Prix. Meanwhile, Ai Ogura recorded satisfactory results for a rookie.

"When you have a satellite team pushing you, it's an extra motivation," Rivola adds. This shows that it's not just a factory, but that if you have an Aprilia you can achieve success. 2026 will be a good season for Aprilia. I'm sure Marco will be competitive right away, and that things will go well at Trackhouse. I have high expectations for the other riders, especially Jorge. We need to give him time to regain his confidence.

Looking ahead to 2026, Massimo Rivola foresees the best for Aprilia: "We don't know what the others are going to do to improve their bikes, but we know ours will be a little better, and that makes us optimistic."

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