The CEO of Aprilia, Massimo Rivola, expressed his concerns about the team’s preparations for the 2025 MotoGP season, stating that having a new lineup of riders is not ideal. After seven years with Aprilia, Aleix Espargaro will be leaving the team, while his teammate, Maverick Vinales, has chosen to move to Tech3 GasGas KTM. However, Rivola remains optimistic about the upcoming season, as Aprilia has hired the current championship leader, Jorge Martin, from Pramac, and three-time MotoGP winner, Marco Bezzecchi. Despite the challenges of a renewed team, Rivola believes in the talent and skills of the new riders and is confident that the team will be able to handle the situation effectively.
Although the simultaneous change of two riders is not the ideal scenario, Rivola acknowledges the strength of Martin and Bezzecchi and believes that Aprilia made the right choices. He also mentions the importance of the satellite team, Trackhouse, in providing continuity for the team. Although the situation is not perfect, Rivola expresses his satisfaction with the duo formed by Martin and Bezzecchi.
There are rumors circulating in the MotoGP paddock that Espargaro will join the Honda factory team as a test rider, but this has not yet been confirmed. When asked about who will lead the development of the bike at Aprilia from 2025, Rivola credits Lorenzo Savadori, the current test rider, for his invaluable contribution to the team’s success. Despite the challenges faced by Savadori as a wildcard rider, Rivola appreciates his dedication and believes that the team is heading in the right direction. He also credits Maverick’s riding style and the presence of a satellite team as additional factors that have helped in the team’s development. With the addition of Trackhouse rider Raul Fernandez and the latest generation chassis, Rivola sees further progress for Aprilia. He expresses his confidence in the design department and the test team in Noale, stating that they are doing an excellent job, even though there is always room for improvement.
